On March 29, at 2 p.m., Delbert Spencer, co-founder of Spencer Speedway passed away at age 86, following complications after heart surgery. Two years ago his brother Walter Spencer, 91, passed away following a short illness. Walter was the oldest of the three brothers who founded Spencer Speedway in 1955. Finally on March 4, 2010 brother Merle Spencer, the youngest brother, passed away at age 80. There was only seven months between the passing of Merle and Walter. Delbert was also predeceased by his son Gary.

  The Spencer family remained at the helm of their namesake speedway until 1994, when they apparently sold the speedway. The family abruptly returned as the management of the track when the proposed purchase fell apart. It was not until 2007 when the track was finally sold to the current owner, John White.

  “This is a great lost to auto racing and our speedway,” stated John White, the promoter at both Spencer and Chemung Speedways. “Del was here when we repaved the track and made staying in touch with happenings at the track part of his life. He truly loved auto racing.”

  Delbert was in charge of the racing operations at Spencer Speedway, while brothers Merle and Walter handled the books, accounting and track crews.

  Delbert is survived by his wife of 65 years, Evelyn Spencer; 2 sisters, Marvel (Larry) Morrow and Catherine Zornow; daughters Rebecca Cappellino and husband Sam and daughter-in-law Ruth Spencer; sisters-in-laws, Ella and Betty Spencer; grandchildren Christina Rossi and husband Jim, and Kim Fallon and husband Andy; four great grandchildren Nicolas, Reece, Collin and Taylor.

  There are no calling hours. A special Memorial Service will be held at the Chapel at White Haven Park, 210 Marsh Road, Pittsford, NY 14534, on Sunday, April 1, starting at 2 p.m.

  Donations can be made in Delbert’s name to the American Heart Association, 3500 Winton Place, Rochester, NY 14623.