Charles Joseph Spengler

Charles Joseph Spengler, 91, of Verona, PA, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2023 surrounded by loving family. He was born July 29, 1931 to the late Charles H. and Mary J. Spengler in Bronx County, New York City.

Charles earned a BS in Geology from the Brooklyn College of the City University of New York. Following graduation, he was employed as a geologist by the U.S. Geological Survey until he was drafted to serve in U.S. Army Signal Corps. During his service he was involved in the Operation Redwing nuclear weapons testing program at Eniwetok, in the Marshall Islands. After returning to work for the U.S Geological Survey, he met and married the love of his life, Lucille and became a devoted husband and father. A longtime resident of Murrysville, Charles enjoyed participating in outreach activities and singing in the Chancel Choir at the First United Methodist Church, volunteering his time at the Lions Club, and supporting his children’s activities. 

Charles was employed at the Westinghouse Research and Development Center in Churchill for 34 years. During this time he earned a Ph.D. in Geochemistry and Mineralogy from The Pennsylvania State University and became a respected expert in the field of metallurgical science and was contributor to or principal on seven patents. After retiring in 1994, Charles enjoyed being a research associate in the Minerals area of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. He was an avid collector of antiques, loved to tour and take cruises with his wife Lucille and photograph scenery, flowers and sunsets. After moving to Seneca Hills Village in 2018, Charles found joy singing with the Seneca Hills Village Singers.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lucille, of 64 years; children Cheryl Spengler and Gregory (Betty) Spengler; grandchildren Robert (Crystal) Spengler and Shannon (Steven) Martin; and great grandchildren Dylan, Patrick, Luke and Nora Martin. He was preceded in death by his grandson Grant Alexander Spengler. He is also survived by his brother Ralph G. Spengler, as well as beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews, and dear friends.

Visitation is Friday, February 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. and Saturday, February 18 from 9 to 11 a.m. with a memorial service immediately following at Hart Funeral Home, Inc. Murrysville. Private interment will be at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies. Memorial contributions may be made to UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, UPMC Cancer Pavilion, Suite 1B, 5150 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15232 in Charles’ name.     www.hartfuneralhomeinc.com

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