Three weeks after celebrating his 100th birthday, Robert Spencer “Spence” Purvis passed away on March 11, 2018. Spencer was born on February 13, 1918 in Seattle.

Spencer’s career as a CPA included work at Purvis & Parker, Arthur Young, and Ernst & Young, from where he retired in 1978. He served as Chair of the WSCPA Board of Directors from June 1, 1966 to May 31, 1967. Past WSCPA Presidents and Chairs who worked with him over the years have expressed fond memories and told of his wonderful sense of humor.

During WWII, Spencer served in the 515th Field Artillery and the 7th Army in England, France, and Germany. He was active in the Lion’s Club where he was a member for 77 years. His other community service included one term on the Coupeville Town Council, and participation on the Whidbey General Hospital Foundation Board and the Island County Planning Commission.

His wife Hope, of 53 years, and his wife Betty, of 17 years, preceded him in death. He is survived by his son, daughter, and four grandchildren.

Helen Doty is the Manager of Governance and Human Resources for the WSCPA. She works closely with the Board of Directors, and the past chair's group. Helen can be reached at hdoty@wscpa.org.