Bernie was born August 26, 1941 in Detroit, MI to Bernard and Billie Marie Spafford. He grew up in his grandparent’s print shop and remained in the printing industry his entire career. Bernie graduated from Southfield High School in 1959 and attended a Plate Makers Union Apprentice School in Detroit from 1960-1962. He started as a union lithographer in 1960 and later moved into management and sales, retiring from Addison Graphic in 2008. Bernie met Joan Reetz at Southfield High and they were truly high school sweethearts. Bernie and Joan married shortly after Joan’s graduation in 1960.
Bernie was a devoted husband and father, who worked hard to provide a wonderful life for his family. He was extremely proud that his children were first generation college graduates. Bernie’s passion was the game of golf. He enjoyed playing in leagues, belonging to clubs, and taking golf trips with good friends. An annual couple’s trip with dear friends was a highlight of the year for Bernie and Joan. Bernie’s favorite golf partner was always Joan- the love of his life. Bernie was a veteran of the United States Coast Guard Reserves from 1959-1967.
He is survived by his wife Joan Mabel (Reetz) Spafford; daughter- Heather (Spafford) Ludlam and son-in-law Michael Ludlam; daughter- Chandra (Spafford) Stubbs and son-in-law Mark Christopher Stubbs; grandchildren- Samantha Ludlam, Alexander Ludlam, Joseph Ludlam, Madison Stubbs; Sister and brother in laws- Norman and Janet Reetz, David and Joyce Hittenger, Frank and June Benedict, Duane and Jean Belding; many nieces and nephews and their children.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Bernard Harold Spafford and Billie Marie Bellamy; along with a brother in law- Bill Kiefer. A memorial service will be held at a later date. The family would like to especially thank the staff at American House Holland Lighthouse for their care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (lbda.org).
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