William Speier, Jr.

William F. Speier, Jr., age 88, passed peacefully from this life, at his home, on Thursday, June 7, 2018.  Born on November 29, 1929 in Philadelphia, PA, he was the oldest child of William F., Sr. and Eleanor Seip Speier.  He grew up in Philadelphia, graduating from Central High School and Pierce Business School.

Bill began working at an early age, while training to become an accountant.  He earned his CPA in 1956 and eventually became Senior Partner at Jemison and Company, which today is the firm of Clifton Larson Allen, LLP.   In 1985, Bill married Marilyn Pritchard Hallman, the love of his life, and while tax season was still dedicated to long hours of hard work for his many clients, Bill devoted a majority of his time and energy to Marilyn, family and friends. 

After retirement, Bill and Marilyn enjoyed traveling domestically and abroad. They wintered in Naples, FL and on cruises and attending many Super Bowls.  Bill took up golf and joined Marilyn in her love of playing bridge.   The couple loved visiting their family in Erie, doting on their grandchildren, entertaining and socializing with their many friends. 

For many years, Bill and Marilyn divided their time between Philadelphia and Naples, FL, before relocating to Erie to be closer to family. In Erie, Bill loved making friends with the staff and neighbors at Asbury Ridge.  His devotion to Marilyn, his step-children and grandchildren remained paramount.  Thanks to his unceasing cheerfulness and positivity, even grocery shopping and socializing at the local Wegman’s became a favorite pastime. 

Bill is survived by his sister Janet Speier Webb, his children Susan Speier Lederach (Scott), David T. Speier (Debora), and Cynthia Speier Gordon (David).  He will be forever loved and missed by his stepchildren, whom he considered his own: David Hallman, Jr. (Andrea) of Erie and Tracy Hallman (Brett Taylor) of Cleveland, OH and their children, Molly Hallman and Abigail Hallman; and Lyvia Hallman-Taylor and Graham Hallman-Taylor.  

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Marilyn P. Speier, his son William F. Speier III, and his grandchildren Andrea Gallagher and David Hallman III. 

A Christian celebration of Bill’s life will take place on Thursday, June 28^th at 11am in the chapel inside St. Mary’s at Asbury Ridge, 4855 West Ridge Rd., Erie, PA  16506.  Burial will be private.  Arrangements entrusted to Burton Westlake Funeral Home, 3801 W. 26^th.  Send condolences at www.Burtonfuneralhome.com