George E. Spanjer

George E. Spanjer
August 3, 1936 - March 31, 2019
Wenatchee, WA.
George Spanjer, 82, passed peacefully, surrounded by his family, on March 31, 2019, in Wenatchee, WA. George was born on August 3, 1936, in Cashmere, WA., where he also received his education. He played football and baseball for Cashmere High School and was a member of the band and choir. He graduated in 1954. George played college baseball, however, music was his true passion and he followed his heart and graduated from Central Washington College of Education with a degree in music education. He married Delores Elser in 1957, and began his teaching career in Bridgeport, WA. Soon, he moved to Peshastin-Dryden School District and then Cascade. George loved the Apple Blossom Festival and he worked tirelessly to get his bands prepared to proudly represent their community in the annual event. George was a sports lover and in the band’s “off-season”, he coached baseball, volleyball, basketball, and softball. He loved being a teacher in the classroom and on the sports field.
George married Barbara Stephenson in 1981, and retired from his long teaching career in 1987. Upon George’s retirement, he and Barbara moved to Hemet, CA. George moved back to the valley in 2017, to be closer to his family.
He was pre-deceased by wife, Barbara Spanjer. He is survived by children: LaVon Gamble, Steven Spanjer, Janet Byrd; grandchildren: Nic Burman, Carie Burman, William Byrd, and Sara Bouchard; four great-grandchildren; and many other loving family members.
Please join his family, friends and students in a Celebration of Life Saturday, July 27, 1p.m. at the Dryden School Memorial Park.