Michael Spanner honoured by close neighbour after sudden death
A Townsville teacher who was weeks away from retirement will never again get to hold his grandchild, see another Cowboys game or catch-up with his close neighbour after his sudden death this week.
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A Townsville teacher who was weeks away from retirement will never again get to hold his grandchild, see another Cowboys game or catch-up with his close neighbour after his sudden death this week.
Michael Spanner, 60, was found dead in his Rasmussen home on Monday morning after fire crews were called to a blaze inside the house.
A close neighbour, Pat Smith, said Mr Spanner was “like a brother” to him and he was still in shock that his mate was gone.
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The pair became friends when Mr Smith moved into Glenrock Drv and lived across the road more than 17 years ago.
Their bond started with a casual wave while taking the bins out, but they soon became tight.
“He kept his cards close to his chest but he would never say a bad word about anybody,” Mr Smith said.
Mr Spanner, who was a beloved teacher at Aitkenvale State School, was preparing to retire by the June school holidays.
Mr Smith said his friend was dedicated to his work, often seeing him working in the middle of the night or volunteering to help on weekends, but he’d decided to wind down.
Mr Spanner, who was a mad Cowboys fan, had also just become a grandfather for the first time.
“I told him to go for it … he was going to just enjoy life and veg out,” Mr Smith said.
Sadly, he did not make it to retirement.
Mr Spanner’s body was found by a family member inside his home about 11am on Monday after he stopped answering phone calls.
Police stated Mr Spanner’s death is being treated as not suspicious.
Aitkenvale State School principal Keith Poulter in a statement said the school was “deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden and tragic passing” of Mr Spanner.
“Mr Michael Spanner was a highly respected and valued member of our staff who will be
greatly missed by all his colleagues and students,” he said.
“Our thoughts and sincere sympathies go out to his family, friends and loved ones during this
difficult time.”
Mr Smith wasn’t home at the time, but said he didn’t want to believe the news when another neighbour called.
“He was a good man … always had time for you,” he said.
The school is offering students and staff support from guidance counsellors.
If you or someone you know is suffering, help is available via Lifeline 131 114.
Originally published as Michael Spanner honoured by close neighbour after sudden death