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The family of Otto Hugh Spilker uploaded a photo
Thursday, June 27, 2019
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victoria ryan posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
Dr. Spilker was my hero! I was his student in the 90s as a Physical Education Major and again when I returned in 2006 for my Therapeutic Recreation Degree. We worked together outside of the classroom as fellow WSI/LGI, Swimming, Water, Health and Safety Instructors for the American Red Cross. I cannot think of one person who inspired me more and supported my growth through the many years he taught me and befriended me as a colleague in the Art of Perfect Physical Education. His manner of teaching was unique and frightful at times...especially when you figured out his sense of humor through it all..not many understood this side of him...i did! What a great wit!! He made me a better person, he encouraged me to never give up as I unfortunately suffered from a car accident in the 90s that prevented me from finishing my senior year in PE, but I came back...stronger than before and more accomplished and proud to have his friendship and support! Much love and many prayers for your loss of this great man! There are not enough words to express my gratitude for his leadership and guidance nor for the passing of his life. Be blessed as he so richly blessed me...us, his students! ~victoria ryan
p.s. i hope WCU builds a memorial for him! maybe bronze his bicycle!!
K
Kent Commander posted a condolence
Sunday, September 3, 2017
I just learned of Dr. Spilkers passing from the WCU magazine. I was on the mens gymnastics team from 1970-74. Dr. Spilker was one of my favorite persons in life next to my Dad and high school band director. He never seemed to let anything bother him. When once in a blue moon he lost the handstand walking contest across the gym floor, he would laugh it off. But you would see him practicing harder the next day. I remember his three girls, especially Naomi. Dr. Spilker was a man who was very easy to look up to and made a big impression on me during the 4 years I knew him. WCU and the Gymnastics team was lucky to have him as a coach. I know he is doing handstands in heaven. Kent Commander. Chesapeake Virginia.
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Mike Hicks posted a condolence
Friday, August 25, 2017
Dr. Spilker was a role model for everyone that came through Reid Gym. His fitness, smile, and passion showed every day for all to see. I never had Dr. Spilker as a professor but was inspired by him nonetheless. '72-'76.
D
Dr Virgil M. Johnson posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
Muriel and I were saddened to hear of Otto's death in the WCU Magazine. We rented a room from Peggy and Otto in the 1964-66 period when I returned to complete my studies. The were both wonderful people and wonder 'landlords.'
The house we were in was a triplex on the hill where the football stadium is not located. Peggy and Otto lived in the first level which adjoined our rented apartment. The under apartment which looked out into the valley was rented by a Chemistry professor and his wife (do not recall his name).
Peggy and Otto made our stay at the school very enjoyable, and our little girl who was about two at the time enjoyed playing with the 'two little gorgeous redheads' next door.
After graduation we moved to New Jersey, and unfortunately, have had little contact with the univerity.
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Steve Powell posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 18, 2017
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Spilker. During my years at WCU he was my favorite professor. He was true professional educator and a wonderful man. May God bless Dr. Spilker and his family.
D
David E. Bradley posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 21, 2017
Dr. Spilker taught me many things at WCU that I later taught and hopefully helped others. He was an inspiration, teacher and friend. I was blessed to know him, may God bless all and may he rest in peace!
R
Roy Douthitt posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 20, 2017
If only 50% of those that teach teachers could be as effective, professional, and caring as Otto was.
A great man has left the stage of life, but not without leaving a legacy that will continue to improve the lives of children for many many years.
I met Otto in Reid gym in October of 1969 and immediately knew he was a serious person and only later came to know him as a man with a huge heart.
Thanks Otto! Thanks for the guidance. I learned so much from you.
Roy Douthitt
Saigon, VN
J
Joan Marshall Keever posted a condolence
Sunday, May 21, 2017
Margaret,
Just wanted you to know that I am thinking of you, Naomi, and Vivian as you mourn, cherish and honor your Daddy. Hugs to all of you!
T
Tom Kasischke posted a condolence
Friday, May 19, 2017
Dear Margaret, Vivian, and Naomi -
Dr. Spilker and Peggy were special people whom I will remember forever. They were always welcoming and genuine in our conversations. I looked forward to seeing them and catching up on their family over many years of knowing them. They were selfless and served as examples of how to take on life's difficulties without complaint. They made others with whom they interacted better people as a result. May the Lord bless them with eternal peace and rest.
T
Theda Haney posted a condolence
Monday, May 15, 2017
Margaret, my heart and prayers are with you and your sisters. Much love to all of you. May God bless and keep you always surrounded by His love.
C
Cindy Faulkner Clark posted a condolence
Monday, May 15, 2017
What a wonderful man who will be missed. I was one of his students and I will never forget the day he showed the class how he could be a "flag pole". What an inspiration with such a kind sole. The memories will last forever. Vivian and the rest of your family, I am so sorry for your loss and we will keep you close in our thoughts and prayers.
P
Phil Ayers posted a condolence
Saturday, May 13, 2017
I along with many others were blessed to have Dr. Spilker as a teacher / roll model. What a physical specimen!!! He could do it all. I never had the guts to jump on that 2 seater bicycle!! Spilker, Pilch, Schrader and Ray provided a great foundation of knowledge to the Physical Education Department.
My condolences,
Phil Ayers; WCU PE 1992
J
Judi Brittain posted a condolence
Saturday, May 13, 2017
Doc was such a fine man and an inspiration to all who knew him. A great mentor to all of us who worked in Physical Education. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you.
K
Ken Parker posted a condolence
Saturday, May 13, 2017
I was among Dr. Spilker's first gym group, beginning about 1966 I believe. We performed at half-time basketball games and high schools around the area.. Dr. Spilker was a wonderful coach and kind person.
D
Donna Ferrara posted a condolence
Saturday, May 13, 2017
I remember seeing
Dr. Spilker riding or walking on campus! So sorry to hear of his passing. Condolences to the family.
D
Dawn E Neatherly posted a condolence
Saturday, May 13, 2017
Such an inspiring man. I loved being in the gym and watching him at his workouts. He possessed that amazing balance of strength and grace that so few have.
D
Denise Burns posted a condolence
Saturday, May 13, 2017
Great swimming teacher and nice man! Taught me at WCU in 1969
C
Chris Burnham posted a condolence
Saturday, May 13, 2017
Dr.Spilker was an incredible man. He was kind, caring, and had a passion for his students. I'm so sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.
R
Ruth Tucker Shomaker lit a candle
Saturday, May 13, 2017
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Paul Jones posted a condolence
Saturday, May 13, 2017
One of the greatest men I have ever known. A mentor and friend.
J
Jeff Carpenter posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
My thoughts and prayers to his family and friends. Dr. Spilker was such a great man and a man I admired and looked up to so very much! He was always such a help to me and so many others. He was a very special man and he will always be remembered! God Bless !
P
Phil Roberts posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Otto was a supreme role model of professionalism & grace. He placed high demands of excellence on all he taught and did so with a "solid" compassion. His example of personal fitness rivaled anything I have accomplished. Although it's been awhile seen we've seen each other, he left an incredible impression of how to live a life well. My condolences to the family at this time & my prayers always.
R
Robin Golden posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Such a great teacher! We were always amazed how strong he was! Thanks for sharing him with us! I'm so sorry for your loss
K
Kim Shaver posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
I had the privilege of knowing Dr Spilker when I was at WCU 1985-1989. He taught several of my classes and I have always remembered him very fondly. He will be missed.
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Ty Smith posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Dr. Spilker was a wonderful man, educator and mentor. I never met a person that did not hold him in high regard and shared the utmost respect for him. I was lucky to have him touch my life at Western. What a great man who enthusiasm for life touched every person in met. Heaven is a little better today.
D
Donna Stamey posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
I will always remember Dr Spilker as a strong, wise and kind man. He amazed me with his physical strength and his knowledge. WCU was fortunate to have him on staff and students were lucky to have him!
Rest in Pease and thank you!!
Donna Stamey
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Tneshia Richards posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Sending prayers for the family. Mr. Spilker was a very sweet and kind man. I am honored to have known him.
E
Edna Jessup Rimmer posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
I remember him well, he was always in Reid gym. I had him for swimming and remember how good he was with gymnastics. Prayers for the family.
J
James Raby posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Oh my, Dr. Spilker was one of my favorite people I have ever meet. He was always a joy to be around. What a good man and example for all of us to live up to. Heaven's gain is surly earth's loss.
R
Robert McGimpsey Jr posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Dr. Spilker was a great teacher and man. He always had time and a kind word for you. He touched many lives at WCU and will never be forgotten by those that had even casual contact with him. RIP Dr Spilker, you were truly one of a kind. I'm sure you are walking on your hands for fun now!! My sincere condolences to the family.
J
Jimmy Ashe posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Niaomi I'm so sorry to here about your father passing. I have always valued our friendship and your parents welcoming me as one of their own. Please let me know what I can do to help you in anyway.
Vivian and Margret are in my prayers too!
Jimmy
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Dick Wittekind posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Condolences and prayers to your family. Dr Spilker was a Cullowhee icon. Much of a man!
J
Judy McConnell posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Margaret,Naomi and Vivian
Sorry for your loss of your Dad. I have fond memories of babysitting you girls. Vivian was just a small baby when I started babysitting you all. I remember Margaret and Naomi sometimes got into little discussions that bordered on almost a fight. Your Dad would always come to my house and pick me up. I got paid $.75 an hour. I got rich babysitting. Hold on to the good memories. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I always loved your Mom dearly. Good good woman.
R
Richard Griggs posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
I just learned the news. Ironically, I was thinking of Dr Spilker earlier this week.
He was a tremendous inspiration to a number of us young gymnasts from 1966-1971. I often reflect back on how patient he was with us kids and how much he did for us on a volunteer basis. His coaching and example has served me well in the years since those days and I will be forever grateful for the example he shared with us.
A highlight for me many years after graduation was when he stopped in my store in Statesville for a visit...around 1999-2000.
I am saddened by the news but the memories of his dedication and interest is a comfort.
Richard
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Lee Gorman Putnam posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
So sorry for your loss. I was a student of Dr Spilker's in the 80's and I also had the pleasure of being a sorority sister of Vivian's. My heart is with you all.
Respectfully,
Lee Gorman Putnam
J
Joe "lurch" Condrey posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
I'm sorry to hear about Dr. Spilkers passing. What a great guy, teacher, coach. He helped coach me as a pole vaulter. He worked with us on gymnastic skills. I was always amazed at his abilities. I still talk about the motor skills tests and the walking on our hands to my kids. He will be missed, but not forgotten.
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Bruce Piercy posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
What a great man and professor. One of my favorites at WCU
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Patricia Newman posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Dear Margaret,Naomi,and Vavian, I am so sorry for the death of your dad. He was a great man and helped many students. I think about you and remember all the good times we had when you were young. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. Much love to you. Pat and Becky.
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Tina Fisher posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Thoughts and prayers for you all during this time .
J
Judy Stroud posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
What a very special man Otto Spilker was to me and so many. I am a better person because of him. Truly one of my all time favorite professors at WCU. My prayers are with the family. May God comfort and give you strength during this time
B
Barbara H. Capps posted a condolence
Friday, May 12, 2017
Please know all of you are in my thoughts and prayers. I am sorry you have lost your dad. He did so much for WCU and students for so many years. May time help heal your pain of loss. With deepest sympathy, Barbara Capps
"Treating Your Family Like Our Family"
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