Clarence Edward Wilson

Clarence Edward “Spanky” Wilson, age 81, of New Philadelphia passed away Monday evening, February 20, 2012 in New Dawn Healthcare Center at Dover surrounded by his loving family following a period of declining health.

Born July 15, 1930 in Flushing, Ohio, he was the son of the late George G. and Grace Anna (Reynard) Wilson. After completing his formal education Spanky joined the United States Army where he honorably served his country.

On May 23, 1951, he married his lifelong companion and friend, the former Janet E. Webb.

Together, they enjoyed spending time with their family. As a father, Spanky greatly enjoyed supporting his son, Ed, as he played sports. That love continued, as Spanky became a grandfather. He was always in the stands cheering on his grandsons whether it was in football, baseball, or wrestling. Spanky spent a great deal of time with his granddaughter in her younger years too.

Spanky was a lifelong truck driver, beginning at age 15 and ultimately hanging up the keys at 79 years old. He worked for Hanna Coal, Breyer Exchange Trucking, Gowins Trucking and ultimately retired from Bob Lewis Trucking.

Spanky was a member of Tabor Ridge Community Church, where his faith was nurtured. He was also a life member of the Scio American Legion and the New Philadelphia V.F.W. Post #1445. His hobbies included dirt track stock car racing, camping, and keeping his lawn well manicured.

He was honored to be one of 10 members of the Inaugural class of the Tuscarawas County Racing Hall of Fame, recognized for his love and skill of racing. Spanky was also a NASCAR fan, and supported Tony Stewart and Dale Earnhardt.

In addition to his loving wife, Janet Wilson, he is survived by his daughters, Debra (Larry) Baker of Carrollton and Robin (Rusty) Lee of Scio; his son, Edward (Margie) Wilson of Sugarcreek; his granddaughter, Ricole “Ricci” (Gary) Sanders; three grandsons, Clay, Brode, and Logan Wilson; two great-grandchildren, Hadley and Orion Sanders who were his pride and joy; his sister, Mary Ellen (Leland) Love of Columbus; numerous nieces and nephews; and his dog, Buddie.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Frank, Don, and an infant brother; and three sisters, Kate, Martha, and Margie.

Visitation will be held in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory on Thursday, February 23, 2012 from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 p.m. A service celebrating his life will be held in the funeral home’s chapel on Friday beginning at 11 a.m. with Pastor John Dunn officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service.

Burial will follow in Ridgecrest Memory Garden at Dover where members of the New Philadelphia V.F.W. Post #1445 will render military honors.

Friends are invited to the Geib Funeral Center’s hospitality room, 5600 N. Wooster Ave., Dover, following the committal service where a meal prepared by Spanky’s church family will be shared.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 716 Commercial Ave. SW, New Philadelphia, O. 44663 or Tabor Ridge Community Church, 525 Bond St. Dover, O. 44622.