William Spink

William A. “Pete” Spink, 87, of Robinson, TX, passed away Thursday, November 11, 2021. Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 16, at Robinson Cemetery, 620 E. Stegall Road, Robinson, TX, with Rev. Jerry Freedman officiating.
Pete was born June 17, 1934 in Pawling, NY, to William and Grace Spink. He grew up in Schenectady, NY. Pete served his country in the US Air Force. He began as a basic navigator, advancing to electronic warfare officer and flight instructor and was the only instructor to log 2000 hours in the TC-54D aircraft. In 1965, he became part of Strategic Air Command’s Elite Herky Bird Fleet. He was the first and the world’s most proficient ARCO (airborne recovery control officer) to direct a remotely piloted vehicle (RPV) over an operational target from a DC-130. His flying career ended at the Pentagon in June 1977 where he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel with ratings as Master Warfare Electronics Officer and Master Missleman. He flew over 4617.5 hours that included a 1077.3 combat hours. After the service, Pete went to work at Marathon Tire and Battery in Waco, TX, retiring after 20 years. He enjoyed working on cars spending time with his grandkids camping out, helping with the Boy Scouts and building bikes. He was loved dearly by his wife, children and grandchildren.
Pete was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Mary Spink; children, Lillian Post and husband Larry, Bernice Spink, Charlene “Charlie” Allen and fiancé Pamela Ramirez, and Roger Holliman; brother, Howard Spink and wife Bonnie; sister, Ruth Norray and husband Jack; grandchildren, Stephanie Thompson and husband Kyle and Alex Post and wife Samantha; along with numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.