Spruce M. Cox's Obituary
Spruce Manford Cox passed away peacefully in the early morning on February 24, 2026, at the age of 70, following complications from pneumonia after living more than three decades with multiple sclerosis. He was surrounded by the family he loved so deeply.
Born on August 4, 1955, in Seattle, WA, Spruce was the oldest child of John and Dorothy Cox, with his brother Dean. His childhood took him from the Pacific Northwest to Sedalia, MO, and Huntsville, AL, and back again to Washington, as his father worked at Boeing on major aerospace and defense projects. Growing up around the early space program and missile development quietly shaped what would become his life’s work.
Spruce married Elaine in 1978, beginning a 48-year partnership marked by devotion, humor, and mutual respect. Together they built a home grounded in faith, love, and thoughtful decision-making. Their personalities complemented one another—Elaine patient and creative, Spruce analytical and deliberate. Through every season, including nearly 35 years of progressive illness, their love remained steady.
After beginning college at Green River in 1973, and transferring to the University of Washington in 1974, with his new found freedom at college, attending class and studying fell off the priority list, and the University asked Spruce to leave. He worked manual labor jobs and later joined Boeing as an engineering aide. But, with the taste of a different life path, he made a new decision to go back to school. He then reinstated and completed his mechanical engineering degree at the University of Washington in 1980. That early detour became part of the wisdom he later passed on to his children about finishing well.
Spruce began his aerospace career with McDonnell Douglas in 1981 before joining Boeing in 1982, where he would spend the remainder of his professional life. As a systems engineer, he contributed to space station programs in Huntsville, AL, and later to the Sea Launch program in Kent, WA. He considered his time working on Sea Launch—supporting the launch of the Rock and Roll satellites for XM Radio and collaborating internationally—among the most fulfilling of his career. Colleagues respected his calm leadership, technical precision, and integrity. Even when he could not travel aboard launch vessels due to physical limitations, he remained deeply engaged in the mission he loved.
Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1995, Spruce faced gradual physical decline with remarkable perspective. Shortly after his diagnosis, a coworker was diagnosed with ALS and passed away within 18 months. That moment profoundly shaped Spruce’s outlook. He often said his illness would be an inconvenience, but it would not define his spirit. Though he experienced frustration at times, he chose gratitude and perseverance. In later years, even as mobility diminished, his engineering mind continued to design solutions and adaptations for daily challenges.
Spruce was an Eagle Scout, following in the footsteps of his father. In 1994 he became Cubmaster of a Cub Scout pack in Gig Harbor and later served as Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 212. He was a steady mentor, guiding young men—including his sons—toward character and achievement.
His faith in Jesus Christ anchored his life. While living in Huntsville, he served as a deacon and choir member at Weatherly Heights Baptist Church. After returning to Washington, he became an active member of Harbor Covenant Church in Gig Harbor. At nearly every family dinner, he led prayer, reminding his children of God’s blessings and encouraging them to live with integrity. He often referenced the biblical example of Daniel—living a life of integrity, in public and private, especially when no one is watching.
At home, Spruce was known for his quiet humor, thoughtful analysis, and a favorite question: “What do you think?” Rather than simply providing answers, he taught his children how to reason, weigh decisions, and consider long-term consequences.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Elaine Cox; his children, Matthew (Whitney) Cox, Jason (Emily) Cox, and Suzanne (Michael) Day; his five cherished grandchildren—Lawrence, Benjamin, Zachary, Gabriel, and Ethan—who knew him as “Papa Spruce”; and his brother, Dean (Dottie) Cox and nieces and nephews.
Spruce will be remembered for his steady character, intellectual curiosity, patient leadership, and unwavering faith. He lived deliberately, endured faithfully, and left behind a family strengthened by the example of his integrity.
A memorial service will be held Monday, March 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Mountain View Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory, 4100 Steilacoom Blvd SW, Lakewood, WA. A reception will follow. Donations to the National MS Society (https://nationalmssociety.org) in lieu of flowers will be appreciated.
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