04/13/2026
It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Norman Marvin Spencer, who left this world on February 26, 2026, at the age of 92. Born on August 14, 1933, in the small town of Grampian, Pennsylvania, Norman was a beacon of strength, resilience, and kindness throughout his long and fulfilling life.
Norman was the son of the late Elbert D. Spencer and Viola May Mahlon Spencer. He shared a joyful childhood with his siblings, the late Jeanette Harmic (Husband David) and Duane Spencer (wife Joyce), and his surviving sister, Caroline Lyons (Husband Ernest), forming bonds that would last a lifetime. His life was further enriched by his sister-in-law, Donna Hollobaugh, and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved.
On November 12, 1955, Norman married the love of his life, Leah Kay Smouse, at the Bible Fellowship Church in Luthersburg, PA. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and endless support. Kay preceded him in death on August 5, 2024, and Norman's devotion to her memory remained steadfast until his final days.
A proud veteran, Norman served his country with honor in the United States Army from July 29, 1953, to June 6, 1955. His service took him to Fort Meade in Maryland and Fort Huachuca in Arizona, where he forged lifelong friendships and honed skills that he would utilize throughout his career.
For over 45 years, Norman worked with heavy equipment, a craft he mastered with passion and dedication. He began his career at Crisman Excavating in Clearfield, PA, and continued with Benjamin Coal Company in La Jose, PA, and Schaffer Construction Company in DuBois, PA. His colleagues and friends remember him as a man who could fix just about anything, from engines to transmissions, and whose work ethic was unparalleled.
Norman was a man of faith, devoting much of his time to his church communities throughout his life. He was an active member of Bible Fellowship Church in Luthersburg, First Baptist Church in DuBois, and Forest Baptist Church in Forest, VA. His commitment to helping others was evident in every aspect of his life, as he was always ready to lend a hand, whether it was moving dirt for the church or assisting family and friends in need.
His love for the great outdoors was evident in his passion for fishing. Norman found solace and joy in fishing local streams and creeks, often in pursuit of native trout, a pastime that brought him peace and happiness.
Norman's legacy lives on in his children, Timothy Spencer and his wife Shawna, and Annette Wishart and her partner Calvin Angus. He was a devoted grandfather to six grandchildren: Timothy Spencer Jr. (wife Marcela), Tyler Spencer (wife Laura), Trenton Spencer, Troy Spencer, Brenna Wishart (fiancé Bennie), and Gavin Wishart (fiancé Emma). He also delighted in being a great-grandfather to Shane, Howie, Ben, Giancarlo, and Zion, who brought him immense joy and pride.
Norman's life was a testament to the values of hard work, dedication, and unwavering love for his family. He will be remembered for his warmth, his generosity, and his unwavering willingness to help those around him. His absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt, but his consistency will continue to guide and inspire all who knew him.
His wishes were to have his family get together and have dinner honoring his memory.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.
