Gabriel has a new trumpet player in his heavenly orchestra today.
We are so sad to share the news, but Al Spriester had a date with an angel and died in the early morning hours of February 19, 2012. Since his wife Dorothy's passing in 2009 he had been living with his youngest son's family in Duluth, GA. He enjoyed the company and care of Bart, Mary, and the kids for the past three years watching his youngest grandsons and granddaughters grow up. He was 82 years old and cared for all his sons, daughters, and grandchildren who lived near and far. Now that he has been reunited with his life's love we hope he will also be reunited with his long lost grandfather and mother.
Dad will be cremated in GA with an impending service in Illinois. When we have further details of the arrangements, we will let you know through this email address.
You may email his daughter Pam at pambell405@gmail.com for additional information.
Peace to all,
The Family of Alfred Spriester (1929-2012)
Al was the band director at DHS from the very earliest days of the school's existence in the 1960s until his retirement in 1987. Under his direction, the program grew in size and stature, performing for the inauguration of Governor Dan Walker in 1973 and for a presidential visit from Ronald Reagan in the mid 1980s. His love for the marching band was evidenced by their many successful and award-winning performances at the Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade and the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival. He brought numerous guest performers to solo with the band and took the students on band trips all over the country and Canada. Al mentored hundreds of students during his tenure, and I am grateful for the wonderful program that he created and I have had the honor of continuing.
Over the next week or so, I'll have more to share, including pictures from his years at DHS as well information about any services.
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