Ralph Roy Spindler

Ralph R. Spindler, 89, passed away at his home in Oconomowoc on November 14th, 2022.  He was born on July 8, 1933 in Milwaukee and was preceded in death by his parents Roy and Ann Spindler, sister Ruth Baird (nee Spindler) and brother Robert Spindler.

Ralph was a proud member of the US Armed Forces and Reserves, entering in May 1953 and honorably discharged at the rank of Corporal in May 1961.  His active service included time in Saran, France assisting with the post-war reconstruction efforts as well as hopping the train to nearby Orleans to enjoy a few beers with his Army buddies. 

After his active miliary service, Ralph attended Marquette University (Class of 1955) and then focused his attention on the field of engineering.  He finished his studies in 1961 with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Milwaukee School of Engineering.  Ralph enjoyed a 35-year career as a Project Engineer at Bert Fredericksen (originally Lofte & Fredericksen) when he retired in 1999.

While he was proud of his career as an engineer, he may be best remembered for his many volunteer activities.  He was devoted to the St. Joan of Arc Parish in Okauchee.  Ralph’s presence was felt in every aspect, whether he was ushering parishioners, planning event activities, presiding over the Parish Council or as a Eucharistic Minister. 

Ralph also spent many years as a volunteer at Elmbrook Memorial Hospital and was a Foundation Board member at Wheat Franciscan Healthcare (Elmbrook Memorial Foundation).  He was as an active volunteer at St. Vincent de Paul in Oconomowoc until his declining health prevented him from serving.

Ralph always enjoyed spending time with his many relatives, but also appreciated the quiet times at his home on Okauchee Lake.  He was very connected to this community and continued to live close by after the family home was sold.

He had a dry sense of humor, enjoyed duck hunting, drinking his nightly brandy Manhattan and watching Charlie Chan movies.

Ralph is survived by 10 nieces and nephews – Eileen Arnold, Glenn Baird, Ellen Bornheim, Joanne Skalecki, Paul Baird, Tom Baird, Jeannie Lacombe, Colin Spindler, Caitlin Spindler and Casey Spindler and sister-in-law Helen Spindler.

Visitation will be held on Saturday July 8, 2023 at St. Joan of Arc Parish, 120 Nashotah Rd, Nashotah, WI 53058, from 9 a.m. until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Burial at Holy Cross Cemetery in Milwaukee at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

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