KARL SPEER

Karl F. Speer, of Durham, Mo., died at Blessing Hospital in Quincy on July 15, 2021.

Karl was born on April 5, 1949 in Hannibal to Walter Earnest Speer and Dorothy E. (Powell) Speer. Karl proudly served his country in the United States Army.

Karl was a lifelong farmer. Upon graduation from high school, he also worked at Motorola Electronics as well as the Mark Twain Casino for 19 years. Karl loved to fish at the area watering holes. He loved working outdoors and tending to his 1931 Ford Model-A pickup. Karl took care of this classic truck and displayed it at local car shows all over the area. He was also the proud owner of a ’63 Chevy.

A jokester at heart, Karl enjoyed kidding around with his dry sense of humor. He was an avid collector of vinyl records with a collection that contained over 12,000 records. Karl also enjoyed drinking coffee with his buddies at the Main Stop Restaurant in Durham and the 18-Wheeler truck stop. Karl cherished time spent with his family and loved ones.

He is survived by his longtime companion and significant other, Sandra Benson, two children; Tracy Dorsey of Washington and Rachel Speer of New Mexico, seven grandchildren and his longtime friend, James Spratt.

Karl is preceded in death by his parents Karl was a member of the Durham United Methodist Church.

Services were held July 20, 2021 at Durham United Methodist Church in Durham, MO. Reverend Helen McFarland officiated.

Pallbearers: Maurice Stoner, Tommy Muse, J.R. Andrews, Phil Goldsten, Larry Logan and Dale Smith. Honorary pallbearers: James Spratt, Chester Speer and Terry Goings.

Burial at Durham Cemetery with full military honors from American Legion Post 174 of Palmyra.

Memorial contributions: Durham United Methodist Church.