Nathan "Ted" Spector
On May 6, 2011 Nathan Theodore “Ted” Spector of Dimondale, Michigan passed peacefully from this earth due to complications related to Alzheimer’s and pneumonia. Ted was born on March 28, 1928 to Solomon and Ida Spector in Syracuse, New York. As a young man while working in a decorating shop as a self-taught upholsterer hoping to put himself through Syracuse University, Ted met the love of his life, Grace. Even with age and religious differences, true love conquered all and Ted and Grace married and moved to Michigan in 1947. They were married almost 50 years.
Ted was the proud owner and operator of Custom Decorators Upholstering Shop in Lansing for over 60 years. Ted’s gift was his hands and every piece of furniture that went out of his shop showed the love and pride that he placed in his work. Ted also had a fondness for cats who lovingly worked alongside him daily at the shop and kept him company at home.
Ted became a member of Masonic Lodge #66 of SO, A&FM in 1955, and was an honorary member of the Dimondale Masonic Lodge. He was active in many Masonic organizations where he earned his 32nd and 33rd Degrees, as well as his life membership credentials. Ted also held the honor of twice serving as the Grand Master of his Blue Lodge, in addition to belonging to the Consistory and Shrine. Truly, Ted based his life on the principles and qualities of Free Masonry.
Ted was also an antique car enthusiast and actively participated in many antique car clubs and was very instrumental in the beginning years of the R.E. Olds Museum and the Michigan Historical Museum in Lansing. In addition, Ted unselfishly gave of himself and his possessions to those in need in the community. It is said that the legacy of a person is a reflection of his actions while here on earth. Ted will surely be missed by all who knew him.
Ted Spector is survived by his daughter, Susan Keeney; daughter and devoted caregiver, Victoria Ann Spector-Walker and dedicated son-in-law, James Walker of Lansing, Michigan; granddaughter, Katie Walker of the United Kingdom; a very special and faithful nephew, Andrew Spector of Houston, Texas; and a host of relatives and friends.
A Masonic service has been held. Contributions in Mr. Spector’s honor may be sent to the Burcham Hills Foundation, 2700 Burcham Drive, East Lansing, MI 48823. Our sincerest appreciation is extended to the wonderful caregivers at Burcham Hills who watched over Ted and assisted in all his needs and made him so very comfortable right through to his last days. You are all angels.
One Message on “Nathan "Ted" Spector”
Print MessagesPlease Sign The Guestbook
Randal Axline
November 11, 2019 at 8:46 pmI worked for Ted for several years at Custom Decorators. I learned the art of upholstering and knew that Ted expected the same hard work and loyalty from me that he brought to the profession. Ted held the highest standards not only in his work but in his life. Respect is not given, it is earned, and Ted earned the highest respect that I have for anyone I know.
I grew close to Ted’s family and spent many hours with Vicki, Sue and Grace. I became a part of the family and those years were some of the best I have ever had. God has called Ted home, and his obedient servant has heard the call. God speed Ted.