Robert William Spoerl

Robert William Spoerl, 81, of Manchester, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, July 25, 2020.

Robert was born October, 22, 1938, to William J. and Ruth E. Spoerl at their family farmhouse, south of Manchester. He attended Copperhead Country School and Manchester High School. Robert served in the Army from 1958 to 1960 and was part of the Third Army Occupation of Bamberg, Germany.

Upon being discharged from the Army, Robert worked tirelessly with his father on their family farm. He was a true caretaker of the land, frequently praising the richness of Iowa’s Grade A topsoil. He also was a nurturer of animals, from the biggest Angus bull to the tiniest barn kitten. Every single creature got a name and he often named his dairy cattle after brides from the local newspaper’s wedding section. Robert’s faith was strong, a requirement for farmers, he said.

Robert never married or had children, but he mentored hundreds of Delaware County youth as a 25-year leader of the Milo Livestock 4-H Club. He served on the Delaware County Youth Committee. Robert was a member of the Iowa Farm Bureau, volunteered with the Delaware County Historical Society, and was a member of the Manchester United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his twin sister, S. Sue Boone (Dean) and brother, Ron (Janet), both of Manchester. He was the most patient “Uncle Bob” to seven lucky nieces and nephews, 14 great nieces and nephews, and 1 great-great niece, allowing them all to follow him around the farm, where they learned the facts of life – and death – and the joy of loving what you do. Robert was the keeper of family history and an expert at remembering birthdays and special occasions.

Robert was proceeded in death by his parents; sister, Linda Browning; and nephew, Scott Spoerl.

A private memorial will be held at a later date. Robert often said he couldn’t recall many days when he wasn’t happy. In his memory, his family asks friends to spend a little extra time looking for and living their own versions of “happy.”

There will be a private family burial at Oakland Cemetery in Manchester.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert William Spoerl, please visit our floral store.