Craig Spencer, former president of the Specialty Advertising Association of California (SAAC) and a nearly 25-year veteran of the promotional products industry, passed away on October 1. He was 50, passing from complications due to a late-stage diagnosis of cancer.

A beloved multi-line rep in the California territory, Spencer worked with Top 40 suppliers The Magnet Group (asi/68507) and Lanco (asi/44900), among other firms. He was elected president of SAAC in 2003.

There has been an outpouring of condolences and tributes posted on SAAC’s Facebook page. “Craig loved fishing, outdoor adventures, close friendships, but most of all, his wife Kathy and his three kids Connor, Cody and Collin,” said Larry Baida, regional sales manager at Top 40 supplier Ariel Premium Supply (asi/36730). “He was a brother to many and a friend to all. Craig will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

Former SAAC President Rick Green also shared a fond memory. “I went to his wedding here in LA back in the mid-90s and brought him a special gift. Craig loved the Little Rascals and we always talked about Spanky and the Gang when we were together. I brought him a CD of all that nostalgic music from the 1930s shorts and he flipped out and played that disc hundreds of times. Every time I saw him after his wedding, he thanked me for that CD. His wife didn't, but Craig did! He was a dynamic guy and real promotional products pro,” Green said.

Spencer is survived by his wife Kathy and sons Connor, Cody and Collin. A private celebration of life was held on October 7 – he and Kathy’s 23rd wedding anniversary.