Contributions to the tribute of Ernest D. Spainhower

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Mark Ralston posted a condolence

Sunday, January 28, 2024

I too was inspired by Ernie (Mr. Spainhower to those of us in his 10th grade biology class!) to pursue a career in the environmental and energy fields. His calm, passionate delivery in class, plus his rumored excellence as a former high school wrestler, made for an attentive audience. I was sorry to learn of his passing and wish I had connected with him to tell him personally how he influenced my life. I think of him whenever someone asks about how I ended up in my profession. Rest in peace - our memories of you will live on.

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Wendall Oaks lit a candle

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

I was a student of Ernie in Junior High School as well as a fellow Boy Scott. Like Scott we would talk for hours about Tolkien and Bob Dylan. Even today when someone mentions Biology, I think of what Ernie passed on to all of us. It was Ernie's friendship and mentoring that lead me to my 40 year career with USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and my ongoing love for nature, birding, and the environment. He was truly an inspiration to all of us and will be greatly missed. To this day I describe to folks his skill in recognizing bird sounds and songs. He would hear a bird long before we ever or maybe never saw it. Wendall Oaks, Loveland, CO

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Drew Grainger posted a condolence

Monday, May 11, 2020

I too was one of Ernie's biology students at Cortland High, but met him first at Camp Purchas. If there is one single person who set me on a path to a career in natural resources and a life-long interest in natural history it was Ernie. I left the area after high school, but did write to him a few times after he bought the house on Yong Street. I will miss him very much. Drew Grainger, Aiken, SC

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Scott Goodrich posted a condolence

Thursday, May 7, 2020

Ernie was a great friend and teacher. I learned many things from Ernie both in the classroom and as the nature director at Camp Purchas. . I would visit him at home and we would discuss Lord of the Rings for hours. His bright blue eyes could stare a hole through you as he would listen intensely to what you had to say. I will miss him very much.

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The family of Ernest D. Spainhower uploaded a photo

Thursday, May 7, 2020

In loving memory of

Ernest

1946 - 2020