In loving memory of Frederick Alwyn Spencer O.B.E who sadly passed away on 16th January 2019.
Fred was born in Fulham, London, on 22nd November 1927. He was the youngest of five brothers. All of his brothers fought in and survived World War II. Fred won a scholarship to and attended Latymer School between 1940 and 1944.
Following school, Fred worked briefly as an Accountant in the City, before joining the Royal Air Force in 1946. He had a successful career in the Supply Branch, retiring with the rank of Group Captain in 1982. His postings included a number at the M.O.D. in Harrogate. He was also seconded to the Royal Australian Air Force between 1974 and 1977; and was awarded the O.B.E. by Her Majesty the Queen, for organising the Air Lift that relieved Darwin, Australia, which was devastated by Cyclone Tracy on Christmas Day in 1974. Fred was also an excellent raconteur who was renowned for his wit and storytelling throughout the RAF.
Fred met his future wife Jo at a dance at the Guildhall in Southampton, while stationed at the Docks in August 1952; and they married ten months later at Lyndhurst church. Both were excellent ballroom dancers. Jo was teaching dance at the Elfin Ballet School at the time. Fred always maintained that he knew Jo was ‘Miss Right’ on the night they met. He loved her dearly.
Fred enjoyed a long, social and happy retirement in Dorset following his career in the RAF. He is survived by his loving wife Jo; his three sons Jan, Dean and Guy; his daughter Caroline; nine grandchildren; and two great grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.
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