John Patrick Spitzer

John was born in Wisconsin in 1938, lived in New Jersey and eventually settled in the Chicago, Illinois area. He began his career in 1968 with North American Phillips as a Test Foreman with the Phillips Broadcast Equipment Corporation in New Jersey and later became Manufacturing Manager of Phillips Audio Video Systems after obtaining his Bachelor of Arts college degree at Queens College in New York. In 1976, he moved to the Chicago area to become Vice President of Manufacturing for EDAX International and then promoted in 1987 to Vice President of Manufacturing for Phillips Electronic Instruments. He finally stopped working at the age of 71 years.

Initially married to Wilma Teresa Spitzer (nee Collazos), they had three children while living in New Jersey: John, Robert and Stephen.

His interests and hobbies included running, travel and chess. He loved to contemplate nature and volunteer his time at the Knights of Columbus. Always wanting to exercise and be active, he enjoyed many years of cross-country skiing. He relished his German heritage and celebrating October Fest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Beloved husband of Dorothy Ellen Erickson; loving father of John Joseph Spitzer (wife Anne Blatchford, grandchildren Tim and Patty), Robert Francis Spitzer (Kelly Spitzer, grandchildren Thomas and Matthew), and Stephen Michael Spitzer (deceased, wife Lisa Spitzer, grandchildren Jakob and Katrina). He also leaves behind the Erickson side of the family: Paul Erickson (Diane and children), Michael (Maureen and daughters), Jon (Josue), Chris and Lisa.

A Celebration of Life memorial is planned for December 2026, with further details pending.