News Summary
Lance Clayton Alspaugh, a beloved figure in the film industry, recently passed away, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and kindness. Known for his generosity and passion for cinema, Alspaugh significantly impacted his community and the moviegoing experience. His 37-year partnership with Victor Martinez and his dedication to preserving classic theaters reflect his vibrant spirit. Family and friends gathered to honor his memory, celebrating a life dedicated to enriching the lives of others through film and community engagement.
Tulsa, Oklahoma — Lance Clayton Alspaugh, a notable figure in the film industry and cherished member of his community, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and kindness. His death has prompted an outpouring of affection from friends, family, and admirers who celebrated his life and contributions to cinema.
Alspaugh shared a deep bond with his life partner, Victor Martinez, with whom he spent 37 years. He was also a loving son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend. Known for his vibrant enthusiasm for life, Alspaugh had a remarkable ability to make others feel valued and special through his engaging conversations and unparalleled generosity. Those who knew him described his generosity as boundless, highlighting the impact he made on those around him.
Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Alspaugh discovered his passion for filmmaking at a young age. At just seven, he received an 8mm projector from his father, which spurred his love for movies. He began creating films using a Super 8 camera, featuring family and friends as stars. His early years in film included screenings in the living room of his family home, where he meticulously focused on presentation and audience experience.
At 16, Alspaugh embarked on his first job as an usher at Mann Theatres, setting the stage for a flourishing career in the film industry. When he turned 18, he moved to Los Angeles to work as an Assistant Manager at the iconic Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. This position marked the beginning of an impressive journey that would shape his future in cinema.
In 1991, Alspaugh acquired the Los Feliz 3 Cinemas and the Vista Theatre, which later became key components of his extensive portfolio. By 1997, he successfully renovated these theaters, breathing new life into them and restoring their status as beloved cultural landmarks. His dedication to enhancing the moviegoing experience was evident in every aspect of his work.
In addition to managing his theaters, Alspaugh formed Vintage Theatres and, in 2011, collaborated with the City of Coronado to acquire and renovate the Village Coronado Theatre. He characterized this project as one of the most joyful experiences of his life, emphasizing his passion for promoting cinema and ensuring that his theaters focused on delivering an exceptional movie experience to audiences.
His commitment to cinema and the community resonated deeply with those around him. Upon his passing, there was a significant outpouring of goodwill and appreciation from the community, a testament to the indelible mark he left on many lives. It is believed that Alspaugh would have felt humbled by the affection shown to him during this time.
Alspaugh is survived by his beloved life partner, Victor Martinez, his mother, Gwynne Lee Alspaugh, his sister, Shelli Sloan, brother-in-law George Sloan, Victor’s mother, Maria Martinez, and an extended family of friends. A service and internment were held at the White Church of the Hills, Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, where family and friends gathered to honor his memory and celebrate the life of a truly extraordinary individual.
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Additional Resources
- Coronado Times: Lance Alspaugh
- Wikipedia: Lance Alspaugh
- Hollywood Reporter: Vista Theatre Acquisition
- Google Search: Lance Alspaugh
- Coronado Times: Village Theatre Screening
- Google Scholar: Lance Alspaugh
- Los Angeles Times: Vista Theatre
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lance Alspaugh
- Coronado Times: Village Theatre Journey
- Google News: Lance Alspaugh
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
