Spencer Allen Lathrop

Spencer Allen Lathrop

Cedar Rapids

Spencer Allen Lathrop, known by most as Al, passed away Monday, June 3, 2024, at the age of 84, at Harmony (formerly Manor Care) of Cedar Rapids, where he was better taken care of than most people’s pets! He was known as the “Candyman,” he always had some form of a snack or treat in his possession, and was always on the prowl giving them to all who wanted and even some who didn’t. If he couldn’t find anyone to share with, he would leave candy on the staffs’ desks or nurse’s station.

Al was born January 26, 1940, in Austin, Minnesota, son to Joseph and Opal (Taft) Lathrop, growing up in Isanti, Minnesota, where his parents did their best to raise Spencer Catholic. He reconnected later in life with his faith while at Harmony. He always looked forward to Sunday communion almost as much as the Bingo games. After graduating and figuring out he wasn’t meant to be a loan officer at the bank, he enlisted in the Army. After proudly serving, he planted his roots in Hiawatha, Iowa, and retired from Quaker Oats after almost 40 years.

Al met his partner in crime there and hardly a single day passed, if any, Bob and Al weren’t together. They were members of Amvets Post #6, Pheasants Forever, to name a few, they hardly ever missed a chance to go hunting or fishing, probably why there were both single, together until the trips to Canada annually got to be too much. They enjoyed hunting and mushroom and asparagus hunting. They were always there for anyone who was in need of a smile, joke, hug, you name it, they were first in line to give it. They were known for socializing at numerous establishments over the years, so many that even the strays in the neighborhood came to their vehicle as they pulled in to greet Al and Bob and they enjoyed the goodies they would bring for all.

Memorial Service will be on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids, with a visitation from 1–3:00 p.m. Reception will follow at the Eagles Club, 1735 11th Street NW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52405, from 4-7:00 p.m.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Iris and Patricia; four wives, Judy (who he married twice), Jan (who probably would have married him a second time), Kristen, and Nancy; and his dear friend, Robert “Bob” Blosch.

He is survived by his six children that are known of, twins, Teri and Randy, Brenda, Mark, Braxton, and Juli. If there is any other out there, I apologize for not naming you, but I would love to meet you. FYI, there is no money.

Please share your support and memories with Al’s family on his Tribute Wall at www.stewartbaxter.com under Obituaries.