Emilie Margaret Spanke, 90, of Monroe, NC passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026. She was born in Millvale, PA, on January 17, 1936, daughter to the late Richard Rinsheid and Regina Bauer. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Phillip MacDonald as well as her second husband David Spanke. She was also preceded in death by her son Michael MacDonald, her daughter, Margaret Spanke, brothers Richard and Joseph, and sisters Rosemary, Regina, and Arlene.

Emilie is survived by her two sons, Thomas MacDonald (Karen), and Kirk MacDonald, stepdaughters Vickie Berger and Dawn Spanke, stepson David Spanke, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Emilie worked briefly in retail but spent most of her adult life as a homemaker. She loved all her kids, her Lord and Savior, and her cats. No matter her personal situation, she was always concerned with the welfare of those she loved. Being of an era that experienced both the worst of times and such incredible changes, she was resilient, true to her values, and possessed quiet strength. Her steady, comforting presence will be deeply missed.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until 10:45 AM on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at Gordon Funeral Service, 1904 Lancaster Ave. Monroe, NC 28112. A funeral service will be held at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at Sandy Ridge Baptist Church, 1106 W. Sandy Ridge Road, Monroe, NC 28112 with burial to follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Council on Aging in Union County www.coaunion.org

Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com

Gordon Funeral Service & Crematory, 1904 Lancaster Ave, Monroe, NC 28112, is honored to be entrusted to care for the Spanke and MacDonald Family.