“Over, under or through — but never around.”
J Spencer “Spence” Van Alsburg lived by this motto, not only in his adventures but in how he approached people and problems.
That mindset led him to Catholic Charities and Samaritan House Fort Collins many years ago.
Through a connection with Sister Mary Alice Murphy, founder of Samaritan House Fort Collins, then known as the Mission, Spence received a call about an urgent need. Something essential had broken at the shelter, and help was needed.
He didn’t hesitate. He simply said, “yes.”
That moment marked the beginning of a lasting relationship with Catholic Charities, rooted in service and responsiveness to people in need.
Spence passed away in May 2025 at age 95. He left a legacy of generosity through a gift supporting Catholic Charities serving Larimer County helping provide meals, shelter and a path forward for neighbors facing hardship.
His generosity was shaped over a lifetime of curiosity and movement.
Spence’s work and interests took him far beyond his roots in Michigan. He lived across the United States, Venezuela and Brazil. In retirement, his travels expanded even further, taking him to places such as Egypt, China and remote regions of Africa and South America.
But travel for Spence was never just about seeing the world. It shaped how he saw people.
He encountered people from many backgrounds and circumstances. Over time, those experiences deepened his empathy, especially for those doing their best and still struggling.
That perspective guided how he responded when someone needed help. Spence believed in direct action and practical generosity.
His daughter, Lisa, remembers him as a generous man who quietly cared deeply for others.
“He had a heart for people who were down and out,” she said.
Continuing his legacy felt natural — a way to carry forward the example he lived every day. Samaritan House Fort Collins continues to support those who need a hand up, just as it did when Sister Mary Alice first called Spence years ago.
Samaritan House Fort Collins, a ministry of Catholic Charities, provides food, shelter and support for individuals and families working to regain stability — meeting people in crisis and walking with them toward a more secure future.
Spence’s life is a reminder that generosity often begins with a simple decision: to say yes.
Through legacy giving, that “yes” can continue to bring hope, stability and dignity to others for years to come.
You can be part of that legacy.
To learn more about including Catholic Charities in your estate plans or making a legacy gift, visit https://ccdenver.org/ways-to-give/ or contact donorrelations@ccdenver.org or 720-799-9311.