Michael Joseph Spehar, 53, of Thousand Oaks, died Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2003 at Los Robles Hospital, surrounded by his family after a six-year battle with cancer.
Mr. Spehar was born April 2, 1949 in Hancock, Mich., to Joseph and Jean Spehar.
He grew up in Van Nuys, attending St. Bridget of Sweden School, Crespi High School and graduated from Birmingham High School in 1968.
Mr. Spehar was employed for 26 years in set lighting for the studios.
He enjoyed camping and fishing with family and friends. He was a sports enthusiast whether playing, coaching or watching.
Mr. Spehar also enjoyed cycling and in 1996 completed the Solvang Century (100 miles).
He married Amy just over 21 years ago on Jan. 16, 1982.
Family was very important to him. He found his greatest joy and happiness through his daughters Mandy, Megan and Erin.
Along with his wife and daughters, Mr. Spehar is survived by his parents, Joseph and Jean Spehar of Van Nuys; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Larry and Lorraine Spehar of New Hall, and Mark and Heather Spehar of Idyllwild; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Susan and Mike Yetter of Grants Pass, Ore. and Karen and Brad Syverud of Moorpark; his in-laws, Harold and Lois Whitfield of Burbank; a brother-in-law, Barry Whitfield and his wife Pam of Santa Clarita; sister-in-law Kathy Petzoldt and her husband Paul of Burbank; sister-in-law Wendy Saber of Toluca Lake; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He also will be missed by a large extended family and many close friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society, 50 W. Hillcrest Dr., Ste. 208, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360.
