Kelley Spearen — a 1971 Staples High School graduate, and talented yard work artist whose works can be seen throughout Westport — died yesterday, from complications of arthritis and neck surgery.
On July 7, 2016, “06880” ran this story. It serves now as a tribute to him.
For as long as he can remember, Kelley Spearen loved working with his hands.
During his years at Bedford Junior High and Staples High School, he spent time with carpenters. He was accepted to helicopter and airborne Ranger school. In 1975 he joined Westport Center Service, and as general manager built its automotive department from scratch.
In the 1980s he got into metalworking. His wrought-iron hardware pieces were bought by L.L. Bean and Stew Leonard’s.
Spearen then created bigger sculptures. A private customer bought his 22-foot Eiffel Tower. Another purchased a giant question mark. With the advent of Facebook, he was able to find customers as far away as California and Germany.
Kelley Spearen’s “Eiffel Tower” now sits on a private residence, along the Saugatuck River.
But the hands that have brought him so far now betray him. Rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia have made it tough to work on large pieces — hard, sometimes, even to get to his well-equipped studio here in Westport. He’s in a ton of pain, and it can take 4 hours to get going in the morning. But he does not complain.
Kelley Spearen, in his home studio.
So, as Spearen concentrates on smaller sculptures, he’s selling off his biggest ones. Search for “Dr Funky Metal” on Facebook to see what’s available.
Then just figure out where and how to get your new sculpture on your lawn.
“Abe,” by Kelley Spearen.
Kelley Spearen calls this sculpture “Asian style.”
“Marilyn” (Photo/Jo Ann Miller)