Chapter Eternal: Big Pi recipient Sandy Spitzer ’51 – Washington University

Sanford Jay “Sandy” Spitzer ’51 a financier, philanthropist, veteran, and loyal Pilam brother, passed into the Chapter Eternal on January 5, 2023. Sandy believed in living an honorable life and doing things for family, in business, and the community in the best way possible.

Sandy graduated Washington University with a degree in Business Administration. He was very active in Pi Lambda Phi, serving as Treasurer, Vice President and President. He also served on the Interfraternity Council and was Vice President of Hillel. His personality and popularity helped him win the title of BMOC (Big Man on Campus).

Throughout his life, he maintained friendships though his interests including golf, bridge and social clubs. He chaired his college reunions and remained in contact with his Pilam fraternity brothers, “not four years, but a lifetime.”

Service to country

He was a member of ROTC and graduated as a 2nd Lieutenant. Sandy served two years active duty and then eighteen years in the Army Reserves and retired as a Lt. Colonel after 20 years.

A legacy of giving back

For Sandy and his wife Gloria philanthropy and volunteerism were important family priorities. They spent a lifetime of giving back to a wide range of nonprofits and charitable organizations in their St. Louis community. They particularly supported underprivileged youths, seniors, education and health related causes.

When called upon Sandy led fundraising efforts for a number of charitable organizations including the American Diabetes Association, United Way, and the Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital, among many others.

One of Sandy’s favorite quotes was by Winston S. Churchill, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”

A successful career

Sandy started his career in the family finance business as the executive vice president, expanding the company to 15 locations and then selling the company in 1967. 

He later worked at Mark Twain Bank. The company grew and he became a senior vice president helping to open new branches. After multiple acquisitions, Mark Twain banks eventually became part of US Bank. Sandy retired in 1999.

Big Pi recipient

For his professional and exceptional philanthropic accomplishments, Sandy received the Big Pi Award in 1992.