Scotch Plains Mourns The Passing of Former Mayor Gabe Spera

Scotch Plains Township is mourning the passing of former Mayor Gabriel A. Spera, who died on January 9 at the age of 90.

Spera was passionate about preserving the natural environment, maintaining local identity, and upholding cultural traditions. In support of these ideals, he ran for and won a seat on the Scotch Plains Township Council in 1982, ultimately serving for eight years.

He was honored to be named mayor twice during that time. He helped revitalize downtown Scotch Plains while successfully fending off overdevelopment. 

He was active in UNICO, the Boy Scouts, and both the North Plainfield and Westfield Italian American Clubs. He could always be seen cheering on his children—and everyone else’s as well.

Spera is survived by his wife, Marilyn; his children, Cynthia Neff (Robert Neff, Jr.), Theodore (Maria Fernanda), and Gabriel (Rachel Lee); his grandchildren, Tomas, Carey (Caroline), Teddy (Star), Laura, Kate, Sophia, Paloma, Raven, and Phoebe; and great-grandchild, Hazel Grace. Gabe is also survived by his brother, Paul, several cousins, nieces, and nephews, and numerous friends.

Photo Credit: Fanwood Memorial Funeral Home