In Memoriam, Thomas Spackman: Former Indiana Beach owner will be remembered for his love

by Caine Donis
I.B Crow and Cornball Jones are in mourning as well as the whole state of Indiana and the coaster enthusiast community. Thomas Spackman, the son of Indiana Beach founder Earl Spackman passed away at the age of 100, on November 11, 2013. Even though Tom was originally born in Michigan, he will always be a beloved, and missed Hoosier. Indiana Beach might not be the biggest, or have the most rides but it has heart. Mr. Spackman knew this, and went all out to make a park in the middle of Indiana a place that everyone would want to come and visit. Originally he took over Indiana Beach, located in Monticello, IN from his father in 1945. In 1952, Spackman changed the name of the park from Ideal Beach to Indiana Beach which proved to be only the beginning of changes he brought to the park.
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I never personally had the opportunity to meet Mr. Spackman, but the millions of people that have and that I have known all say that he was dedicated to families having a great time together. Mr. Spackman was a great man that loved and was beyond dedicated to his family, his state, and his park. We are all grateful for what be brought into the amusement park industry, great coasters and rides. True class something I feel is lacking in the industry today, Mr. Spackman always made sure Indiana Beach fit that criteria. I say as a fellow Hoosier and on behalf of everybody else thank you, and we'll miss you. Caw Caw.