Obituary of Gilbert Loren Spaur

Gilbert Loren Spaur, 90, of Johnstown passed away on May 16, 2023 at The Lodge in Greeley.  He was born June 23, 1932 in Johnstown, CO to Bennett Lee and Marie Rose (Binder) Spaur, Sr. where he grew up and lived out his life. 

Gilbert graduated from Johnstown High School in 1950.  He farmed with his family during his school years, lost his leg in a farming accident at the age of 21 and worked the pickle docks in Johnstown before farming full-time. 

He met Caron Mae Werner and they were married on December 29, 1962 at a Catholic church in Aurora and were fortunate to honeymoon around the world for a few months before returning to the family farm in Johnstown. 

They owned an airplane for many years and he taught both of his children how to fly.  Before retiring from farming, he enrolled at AIMS in the autobody and painting courses, restoring a number of antique tractors, painting cars and doing autobody work.  He loved to trout and salmon fish, taking trips to Alaska, hunting, woodworking and was an all-around repairman, helping family with anything that needed to be fixed.  They also enjoyed traveling and enjoyed their time with the family, especially the grandkids. 

They were active members of Greeley Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and trustee for many years. 

Thankful to have shared his life are his children; Sheila (Dan) Rieves and Brent (Delanie) Spaur, four grandchildren; Rachel Rieves, Jake Rieves, Halie (Charles) Tolton and Gavin Spaur and Gilbert was anticipating his first great-grandchild in October, his sister-in-law, Ruby Spaur, two brothers-in-law, John Werner and Jim (Arlene) Werner as well as nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, their son, Grant in 1981, his wife on May 1, 2023 and his brothers; Bennett Jr., Byron, and Glenn Spaur. 

Gilbert’s Life Celebration will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at Greeley Baptist Church with interment to follow at the Johnstown Cemetery.  A reception will follow at Grace Church in Johnstown.  Memorial gifts may be made to “Greeley Baptist Church” in care of Adamson, 2000 47^th Ave., Greeley, CO 80634.  Condolences may be shared at AdamsonCares.com.