Napa - On Sunday, Nov. 15, Clarence “Chic” A. Spicer took his last flight for his final life’s journey … though a private pilot himself, he passed away while being flown to an emergency medical facility, taking his last breath in the sky where he loved to be, piloting his life to the very end.

Born in Pawnee, Okla., on Aug. 24, 1933, to Burl and Lorene Spicer, both pre-deceased him as did granddaughters, Justin Radi and Torrie Benavidez.

He married his loving soul mate Jo Anne Rubattino-Spicer on Aug. 9, 1953, and together they embarked on many world-wide excursions that included South America, Africa, Asia and Europe, enjoying discovering life together during their 56 years of marriage.

They started their family soon after marriage due to Chic’s military commitment to serve his country in the Korean War. Survived by daughters, Sharon Marie Nelson, Karen Elaine Coker, Caroline “Grace” Reyes; grandchildren, Nichol Radi-Morgan, Angela Burns-Allen, Robert Burns, Melissa Joblinski; great grandchildren, Katie Silver, Spencer Morgan, Michael Kidwell, Zachary Allen, Timothy Allen, and one expected on the way.

After more than 50 years of continued education and hard work, Clarence retired as a shipwright engineer in 1997. Many of his accomplishments and services included the U.S. Army, an associate degree of science, associate degree of arts, boiler making teaching credential, and a four-year apprenticeship in a welding technology program.

He also was a member of several affiliations including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, American Welding Society, California Teachers Association, member of Napa College Welding Advisory Board, and member of Solano College Welding Advisory Board, Sons In Retirement Inc. No. 65, Sons of Italy and Elks.

Though most were never aware of his achievements, being a modest man and one of private nature, his life works seem minor when we think of what he meant to us and others … a man who gave more than was expected or required, and who gave it with little thought to worldly reward.

We bid you good-bye. We will never forget you. For those who knew you well and loved you, the pain will be deep and enduring.

We can find consolation only in faith, for we know in our hearts that you who flew so high and so proud now make your home beyond the stars, safe in God’s promise of eternal life.

Private family services were held Friday, Nov. 20. Arrangements are under the direction of Tulocay Funeral Home.