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Robert Spirko, a local artist, business owner, volunteer and teacher, has died.

Spirko – who was recognized last month with the planting of a legacy tree at the Rose Center – was a pillar of the community for more than 50 years, according to Rose Center Executive Director Beccy Hamm.

During that time, he was employed with Berkline, the Morristown Area Chamber of Commerce and owned his own business – Aesthetic Considerations but his lasting contribution will be as a great supporter of the Rose Center and the Lakeway Area Arts Community.

“Bob exemplified service,” Hamm said.

As the volunteer curator at the former school that now serves as an arts, culture and education center, Spirko designed and re-designed every nook and cranny at the city landmark. He has been called upon over the years to assist with décor at community celebrations, including the annual Mountain Makins festival and has sold his unique works at fundraisers like Spring Thyme in the Garden.

He has often been asked to design centerpieces and collages for the opening receptions of art shows hosted by the Morristown Art Association and the exhibits that are featured in the Edith Davis Gallery.

He has been an advisor to every director and has helped with events such as Mountain Makins. He also taught classes, organized, and preserved archives, and was a part of programs such as Morristown Art Association as well as From Africa to Appalachia. He has also often been asked to create his beautiful collages and centerpieces to display at art shows and receptions.

Spirko graduated from ETSU with a degree in fine arts in 1968 and throughout his artistic career, was comfortable in many mediums from sculpture to painting. He enjoyed creating light, delicate art and often used reclaimed or recycled materials, giving them a second chance at life.

For more than 20 years, he taught art classes in the Hamblen County School system. He owned and operated his studio and art gallery – Aesthetic Considerations – for 30 years.