David Spute

David Spute, 91, of Erie, died on Friday, February 24, 2023 at his home. 

He was born November 23, 1931 a son to the late Carl and Myldred (Braggins) Spute. 

David grew up in Millcreek graduating from McDowell High School in 1949. David was inducted into the United States Army on November 3, 1952. He deployed to Korean Theater of Operations, as a member of the 2nd Army, 31st Infantry Regiment, Heavy Mortar Company. Serving over seas a total of one year and one month. Attaining the rank of Corporal (T). He was awarded the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, the Good Conduct Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the United Nations Service medal, the Combat Infantry Badge, National Defense Service Medal, and the Purple Heart.  Following his Honorably Discharge he returned to the Erie area he continued to work in his family's masonry business. He was a third generation brick and stone mason and a member of the International Union of Bricklayers In Erie, he worked consistently for many years in the production as well as the laying of brick and stone construction. Late in his career he returned to schooling at Penn State Behrend, earning a Bachelors Degree in Education. He then became a full time teacher of masonry at the Crawford County Vo-Tech School in Meadville, retiring from there after a job well done.
 
He was a man skilled in the use of his hands and tools. His young mechanical mind was well in use as he repaired engines and created modifications to a vehicle that performed well in dirt track races across the state. He possessed a rare talent for fixing almost anything that he set his mind to. He enjoyed golfing and was an active member of multiple leagues. He even designed and constructed personalized golf clubs for friends, showcasing his exceptional ingenuity. Dave was a member of the Millcreek Sportsmen's Athletic Club in addition to the Millcreek American Legion Post #773. Overall, David was a remarkable individual with exceptional skills, a commendable work ethic, and a love for teaching the craft of brick and stone masonry to his students. 

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his daughter, Cheryl Skarzenski; and granddaughter, Jessica Skarzenski. 

He will be greatly missed by his family which include his daughters, Christine Zuck (Chris Graves), Lesley Koble, Joyce Dorich, Deborah Sabol; son, Paul Dorich; grandchildren, William Koble, Sherri Zuck, David Zuck (Kada) and Elizabeth Gilson (Kevin); great-grandchildren, Kaya, Amelia, and Ethan Zuck. 

Friends may call on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Girard Alliance Church, 229 Rice Ave., Girard.  A Funeral Service will be held there the following day, Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at 10:00 am. 

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