David E. Spikol

David E. Spikol passed away peacefully on March 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family after 93 years of joyful living. 

Born in Brooklyn, NY, to Samuel and Rebecca(Furgang) in 1930, Dave grew up in Brighton Beach. He enjoyed all that city life had to offer, from Coney Island Amusement Park, days at the beach, vacant lot baseball games, and eating as many fried clams as possible. As a child, he was an active member of the Scouts and enjoyed playing sports with his many friends. 

After serving in the Korean War, Dave attended Brooklyn College, where he began his career as a sixth-grade teacher in the New York City public schools. Attaining a Master's degree, he went on to become a school administrator.

In 1957, he married the love of his life, Joan Hermann. Together, they had many wonderful adventures, including traveling to Europe, running an antique store, and raising their two children, Daniel and Susie. Although they raised their family in Brooklyn, each summer, they spent time in Newfane, Vermont, where their home was always open to many friends and family. 

Throughout his life, Dave enjoyed woodworking. Some of his happiest days were spent in his workshop, turning bowls and wood carving. He passed on his love of nature and bird-watching to his children and often took them on birding adventures in New York City parks and Vermont country roads. Dave enjoyed wandering through museums and galleries and encouraged his children to live creative lives. 

No loaf of artisan bread was safe within Dave’s reach. He was a true foodie, enjoying dim sum in Chinatown, seafood in Little Italy, and any sweet pastry or chocolate treat. He loved his Weber grill and was a master of smoking turkeys for parties. He enjoyed a good bottle of wine and a dry martini with friends. His family encourages you to eat something delicious or raise your glass to this sweetheart of a human.

Dave lived at the Village in Rivermead in Peterborough for over ten years, where he made many new friends. He was an active and engaged member of this vibrant community. He loved living in Peterborough and being close to his three grandchildren. He found great joy in being part of their lives, seeing them grow, and finding their own paths in the world. 

No words would be complete about Dave without mentioning his love for life, family, and his many dear friends. He loved a good joke and conversations and always had a sparkle in his eye. He will be missed by many for sharing and encouraging optimism and kindness.

He is survived by his son, Daniel Spikol, and his wife, Lene Bull of Copenhagen, Denmark, and his daughter, Susie Spikol of Hancock, and her three children, Lily, Liam, and David. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his name to the Harris Center for Conservation Education. 

A summer celebration of his life is planned.