Mr. Robert G. Spann

Robert G. Spann of Setauket, Long Island, New York died Saturday August 18, 2018 at Stony Brook Hospital, Stony Brook, Long Island at the age of 93. He had a long and successful career as an electrical engineer with Unisys, Sperry, and Richmond Associates until his retirement in 1988. He was born in Newark, New Jersey on May 8, 1925 to Hans R. Spann and Gladys Hockenbury Spann.  He is survived by his wife Myrtle Morrill Spann to whom he was married for 68 years; his three sons, David R. Spann (Dawn) of Berea, Ohio, Richard A. Spann of Middle Island, New York, and Steven P. Spann (Debbie) of Mineola, New York; three grandchildren, Kristin M. Spann Patac (Kyle) of Smithtown, N.Y, Michael Ryan Spann of Cornelius, North Carolina, and Sarah Grace Spann of Tallahassee, Florida. Bob graduated from Cooper Union in New York with a degree in Engineering June 1950 and received his Master’s in Engineering from Columbia University in New York June 1954.

In October of 1943, Bob was asked to report for active duty with the U.S. Army. He served with the 3rd squad of the 104th infantry Timberwolves during WWII. The experiences he had were life-changing, and perhaps other than his children, were the most meaningful of his life. The arts provided much joy for Bob. He authored books on diverse topics from religion to murder mysteries. He also was a painter and many of his creations were displayed in his home. Bob was an amateur international chef, creating delicious cuisine on most Sunday nights at home. Additionally, he acted in community theatre productions such as Brigadoon and Bye Bye Birdie. An accomplished pianist, Bob spent many moments relaxing at the piano singing his favorite song “Rhapsody in Blue”.

In retirement, Bob volunteered as Business Manager of The Congregational Church of Manhasset, Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Resident Counsel of Jefferson’s Ferry, and he served for the State of New York on the Counsel for Continuing Care Retirement Communities for 10 years. In addition, Bob researched and recorded the Spann Genealogy going back several hundred years and spent much time exploring ancestral homes, skills and communities.

Services are at Bryant Funeral Home Thursday August 23 at 10:00 a.m. at 411 Old Town Rd, East Setauket, NY 11733. Visitation is Wednesday August 22 from 2:00-4:00 at the same location.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made on behalf of Robert G. Spann to The Salvation Army, the First Presbyterian Church of Port Jefferson or Jefferson’s Ferry of South Setauket, NY.