Donald E. Spiegel

Donald Elwin Spiegel passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on Friday, November 25, 2022, in Alamo, CA. He is survived by his son Gary, four grandchildren, and numerous nephews and nieces. Don also had three brothers, Dale Sr., Jack and Richard, each of whom predeceased him. Born May 6, 1926, in Jewell County, KS to Jacob A. Spiegel and Laura May Levi Spiegel, Don grew up on the family farm in Formoso, KS, where he was an excellent student and musician. He pursued classical piano after high school before serving in the US Army from 1951 to 1953. After his honorable discharge, Don studied at the University of Kansas from 1953 to 1958, earning his PhD in clinical psychology. Upon graduation, Don followed his brother Jack and relocated to Los Angeles, CA where he worked at the Veterans Administration for over 35 years. During his tenure, he was known as a passionate advocate for the rights of mental health patients. Also during his tenure, Don met Patricia Keith-Spiegel and the two of them subsequently married and adopted their son, Gary. Though Don and Tricia later divorced, they remained life-long friends. In his retirement, Don continued to pursue his love of piano, and became an avid tennis player. Don continued to play tennis on a weekly basis well into his 80s, which served both as a means of fitness and a source of friendships. By all accounts, Don was a formidable player, as evidenced by the multitude of trophies he proudly displayed in his home. He also enjoyed meeting friends and family for brunch whether after morning tennis or with relatives who were visiting. While Don prided himself on his independence, we persuaded him to move to the San Francisco Bay Area over a year ago, where he would be closer to Gary and Tricia. That gave him a better support network as he aged, and we are thankful to have had the opportunity to spend more time with him. The family suggests that each friend remember Don in their own way or with the charity of their choice. You may leave condolences and memories for the family on this site.