Obituary of Rolf Otto Walter Spangenberg
It is with heartfelt sorrow, the family of Rolf Otto Walter Spangenberg, husband of Donna (Maclean) Spangenberg, announce his passing on Wednesday, November 3, 2021.
Born in Dersau, Germany on May 4, 1944, he was a son of the late Walter Spangenberg and Elizabeth (Jotzies) Steting. Rolf was employed as a Commercial Account Executive at Hub International Atlantic Ltd., for many years.
At the age of 14 years, Rolf crossed the Atlantic Ocean from Germany to Halifax with his mother and stepbrother in 1958. Rolf and his family settled in Montreal, where he graduated from Sir George Williams College in 1962. After working at various jobs, he began working in the insurance industry. Rolf was involved in community and provincial endeavours. He served on various boards, including the Saint John Port Authority. He was a past president of the Saint John YMCA, past president of the Insurance Institute of New Brunswick and past co-chair of Dialogue New Brunswick. He was an official ambassador of New Brunswick and a key spark in helping drive Participaction in the 1970s. Rolf was an avid runner. He had taken part in the New York Marathon and many other local marathons. He enjoyed music, enjoyed reading fiction, and experiencing flight simulation. In addition to English and his native language, German, he also spoke French and Spanish.
Survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Donna, he is also survived by his children; Melissa Spangenberg and Michael Spangenberg, three grandchildren; Jean Endo, Stephen, and Matthew Spangenberg. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Besides his parents, Rolf was predeceased by his stepfather Gerhard Steting.
In keeping with Rolf’s wishes there will be no visitation. A private family service celebrating Rolf’s life will take place at Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Road, Quispamsis (506-849-2119). For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed and can be viewed by visiting Rolf’s obituary on Monday, November 8, 2021 at 2PM.
Due to Covid-19 health measures placed on indoor gatherings by the Government of New Brunswick, all those 12 and older attending the service will be required to show proof of vaccination and a piece of a government-issued ID or proof of medical exemption.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Saint John Regional Hospital Cardiac Health and Wellness or to the Canadian Cancer Society, would be appreciated.
