Spencer W. Ravel

Spencer W. Ravel (Spen) was a native of Jersey City, NJ and graduated from Colgate University in 1933 and played football in high school and college. He was a naval officer during World War II and the Korean Conflict, rising to the rank of Commander. He spent 38 years as a teacher and educator. In the 1940’s, he began to coach Hamburg’s football and basketball teams and became principal in the Hamburg Central School District in 1942. He retired in 1971. In 1965, Spen was recognized by the Hamburg National Honor Society Chamber for his 25 years as a school principal. He also served as President of the Hamburg Elk Clubs. He lived and breathed for his “Ravel Kids” and would basically go out of his way to help a student succeed. As an article announcing his retirement states, “Spen’s name has consistently stood for educational quality, extra- curricular achievement and a cohesive student body. His firm but fair discipline has ever been tempered by his warm smile and understanding attitude, earning him the respect of both students and faculty. He represents a close tie between the school and the village.” He died in Clearwater, FL at the age of 80 on December 29, 1988.