AU veterinary professor emeritus dies in accident

An Auburn University veterinary professor emeritus, Dr. Joseph Spano, died Saturday, May 17, after an being struck by his vehicle in his driveway. He possibly slipped while getting into or out of his vehicle, according to police reports.

Dr. Spano, 62, had retired in January after 29 years as a clinical pathologist with the College of Veterinary Medicine, but had remained on campus part-time assisting the faculty. He joined the Auburn faculty in 1973 and had served as an educator, diagnostic clinical pathologist, and director of the clinical pathology diagnostic laboratory.

“I can think of no one who was more dedicated to our college and our students than Dr. Spano,” said Dr. Timothy Boosinger, veterinary dean. “Joe won almost every teaching award at Auburn and he worked tirelessly to help any one who needed his assistance. I consider myself very fortunate to have known Joe for more than 20 years, and everyone will miss him very, very much.”

A native of Arvada, Colo., Dr. Spano earned his veterinary degree in 1966 and his Ph.D. in 1971, both from Colorado State University. He held certification in clinical pathology from the American College of Veterinary Pathologists.

He won many teaching awards, including the Carl J. Norden Distinguished Teacher Award and the Student Government Association Outstanding Teacher Award. He taught more than 2,500 veterinarians and was a mentor to countless faculty and residents as well.

In April, veterinary students selected Dr. Spano to serve as the grand marshal of the college’s annual
 open house. “Our students thought the world of him,” added Dr. Gary Beard, assistant dean. “He touched so many lives throughout the years and was truly a remarkable man.” 

Dr. Spano played a leadership role at the college regarding development and implementation of computer applications in instruction and on applications of telemedicine in clinical pathology.

He was a member of the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, American Animal Hospital Association, American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology, American College of Veterinary Pathologists, Phi Kappa Phi, and Phi Zeta. Dr. Spano presented numerous professional presentations and was active in promoting and administering continuing education courses. He wrote or co-wrote many book chapters and articles for prestigious journals.

Dr. Spano is survived by his wife, Jane; three sons, Josh, John and James Spano; his mother, Jennie Spano of Arvada, Colo.; and one brother, A.J. Spano (Linda) of Arvada, Colo.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, May 20, at 2 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church in Opelika. Following the service, Dr. Spano's family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall.