Donald Eugene Spreier died February 5, 2021 at his home in Larned. He was born September 6, 1934 to Fred and Lucille Spreier in Larned, KS. Raised on a farm in Pawnee County. Graduated from Larned High School, married his high school sweetheart Ellen Arline Bradley. He started his career as an auto mechanic and soon became known as the “Best mechanic in town”, fixing it right the first time. Four children were soon born Debra Diana, Cathleen Jeanette, Brenda Joann, and Alan Dale. After working several years at two General Motors dealerships he opened his own business as an Amoco service station which he operated for twenty years.
During that time he became owner of a total of three full service stations, one in Great Bend and two in Larned. Don enjoyed a versatile lifestyle, building and driving open wheel race cars, being Western Kansas Modified Champion and riding his touring motocycle as well as later becoming a commercial hot air balloon pilot. Golf was always part of his life. He served on the Board of Directors of the Larned County Club, Past President of Kiwanis, Past President of Larned Area Chamber of Commerce. Was a member of Ft. Larned Arms Association and served on the board of directors of Sunrise. Was a member of the Amoco Dealer Advisory board. Don was a member of the First Christian Church Larned. He was preceded in death by son Alan Dale, Sister Eleanor Peterson, and his parents.
He is survived by his wife Arline, daughters Debra Smith, Larned, Cathleen (Steve) Boyd, Great Bend, and Brenda (Mike) Rump, Mission, KS. A brother Joe, Seattle, sister Shirlene Ladd, Phoenix, AZ, nine grandchildren and eighteen great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.
Cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be given to Pawnee County Humane Society in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, KS 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.
Funeral arrangements provided by
Beckwith Mortuary
PO Box 477
Larned, KS 67550
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Feb. 7, 2021
