Joe Aureliano Spencer

Joe Aureliano Spencer, age 87 peacefully passed away August 29, 2014 while residing in El Paso. Joe was born in San Antonio, Texas on March 18, 1927 to Gabina and Francisco Spencer. Inspired by his brother Frank, a prisoner of war, Joe left high school as a sophomore, having to lie about his age to join the USMC after his older brother Frank was shot down over Germany. He proudly served his country in 1945 during WW II with his goal to aid in rescuing his brother. He lived most of his life in Presidio, Texas, where he continued to run the family business, the Spencer Brothers mercantile, which was founded by his great grandfather John William Spencer in 1850. For 63 years Joe was married to the love of his life, Maria L. Spencer. Together they raised their family, Joe Jr. (Bernadine), Dinna Marie, John William (Jennifer) and Gilbert Edward (Yvonne). Joe is survived by his wife, Maria Luisa, 4 children, 6 grandchildren, Joshua Cody, Justin Allen, Jake Alexander, Danielle Monet, Angela Francesca and Christopher Edward. Three great-grandchildren, Thomas Michael, Tatiana Mercedes and Isaac Attaguile. Rosary service is scheduled for Tuesday, September 2, 2014 at 6PM with viewing beginning at 4PM at Funeraria Del Angel Martin Central at 3839 Montana Ave. There will be a funeral mass on Wednesday, September 3, 2014 at 1pm at Santo Niño de Atoche located at 210 S. Clark. John W. Spencer, Gilbert Spencer, Joshua Spencer, Jake Spencer, Justin Spencer and Luis Spencer will serve as pallbearers. Max Castillo, Frank Armendariz, Jr., Frank Spencer, Luis Armendariz, Carlos Armendariz, Alberto Armendariz, Samuel Dominguez and Alfonso Sosa, Jr. will serve as honorary pallbearers. The burial will be held at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery. We ask in lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Alzheimer's Association.