Pink, John Spencer

John Spencer Pink, 73, died Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011, peacefully in his home surrounded by loved ones. Spencer made a gift to the medical community by donating his body to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. A memorial gathering will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 15, at the Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home, 4200 First Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402.

Spencer was born Oct. 26, 1937, in Shelbyville, Ill. He graduated from New Hampton High School, New Hampton, Iowa, in 1955, received his bachelor's degree from State Teachers College (now UNI), and did graduate work there and at the University of Iowa. He was awarded a distinguished teacher honor from the University of Iowa in 1991. Upon retirement from the Cedar Rapids Schools district in 1998, he taught part time at Summit Schools.

An avid traveler (all 50 states and 10 foreign countries), prolific photographer and artist, he exhibited work regionally as well as nationally. He was a consummate teacher and a perpetual student, continually enlightening others and learning.

Survivors include a sister, Margaret (Peg) Pink; and an adopted son, Dimitri J. Pink, plus numerous cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Chester John (CJ) Pink; and mother, Phyllis Spencer.

Spencer suggested that those who knew him plant a tree to remember him.

Memorial donations in Spencer's honor may be made to the Mid Valley Women's Crisis Center, 795 Winter St. NE, P.O. Box 851, Salem, OR 97308.

Please leave a message, tribute or memory to Spencer's family at under Obituaries.