Garrett "Gary" E. Spangler

Garrett “Gary” Edward Spangler left this earth for heaven on the beautiful Sunday morning of September 3, 2023. Gary was born December 20, 1966 in Fukuoka, Japan to adoring parents Glenn Edward Spangler and Judith Ann Deeds Jones. A graduate of Crow High School, he then pursued his degree in computer science. He was hired by Microsoft where he worked for 28 years and developed many lifelong friendships.
In his family life Gary embodied 1 Corinthians 13:7 which says: Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things / It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres (ESV/NIV). It mattered little if you were his child, niece or nephew, sibling, or chosen family - he treated everyone with love, kindness, and generosity. 
Gary pursued anything that interested him with passion. He loved vintage computers, building software, history, trivia, 60’s 70’s and 80’s music, Seahawks football, vintage cars, and top-shelf margaritas.
Gary was known for making friends anywhere he went. As some have put it, “We are all better people because of the impact he had on our lives”, “Good to the soul? That is your dad”, “The kindness he extended me changed my life”, “I love the way he loved you”, “Gary had such an incredible soul”. It is hard to convey just how special he was to everyone he had ever met.
Facing the last three arduous years of leukemia diagnosis, treatment, and complications, he gave it his all till the last because he loved living. Gary would be proud to tell you he endured multiple courses of chemo and not one but two stem cell transplants.
He is survived by his loving parents, three brothers, one sister, six nieces and nephews, his former spouse Heidi, children Sam (Kristan) Spangler, Jonathan Spangler, Katie (Nolan) Fout, Mandie (Brian) Heil, Andrew (Ashley Costanza) Spangler, and ten grandchildren - all who love him immeasurably.
Visitation will be held on Monday, September 11, 2023 from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm, immediately followed by a funeral service. These will be held at Schaffer Funeral Home (529 Jefferson Avenue, Defiance). There will be a celebration of life meal for all who would like to attend at the First Church of God Summit Youth Center (561 Carter Road, Defiance) at 6:00 pm. Former students are encouraged to attend if they desire. We know Gary, although ever humble, would be moved and honored to see the impact he has had on so many lives. Guests are invited to wear anything that reminds them of Gary or orange for Leukemia Awareness Month.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider donating to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or the Cleveland Clinic.
Schaffer Funeral Home was honored to assist the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.