Ned Spalding, 67, a longtime resident of Newtown and Southbury, died at home surrounded by loving family members on the morning of July 2.

He grew up in Akron, Ohio, and he attended Archbishop Hoban High School and Akron University, before serving in the US Army. He had a lifetime profession as a master builder working on homes for his family, as well as throughout Connecticut and New York.

Mr Spalding had a great passion for the ocean and deep sea fishing. He thoroughly enjoyed photographing birds and bears, as well as his grandchildren and the decorative gates of Hawaii. He was a diehard fan of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

His devoted wife, Chris, of 44 years; his daughter Erin Elovecky and husband David Elovecky of Bridgewater; his son Joshua Spalding and wife Janine of Maui; and grandchildren survive him. He is also survived by his sister Mary Beth Torre and her husband Dan Torre, and brother John Spalding.

His younger brother Christopher and his parents predeceased him.

The family will receive friends on Friday, July 8, between 2 to 4 pm, at Carpino Funeral Home, 750 Main Street South, Southbury. A brief prayer service will be held at 3:30 pm.