Michael is survived by his wife, Julia Spaeth (nee Higgins); his two sons, Jonathan (Jennifer) and Christopher; his grandsons, Jason and Ryan; and his granddaughter, Elizabeth. He was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Norma Spaeth, and his sister, MaryBeth Jackson (nee Spaeth).
Mike was born on February 06, 1944, in Miami, Florida. Mike spent his childhood years growing up in South Florida. He later graduated from Biscayne College, in Miami Gardens, Florida, with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies. Following graduation he joined the U.S. Marine Corp, and served until August 1970. He then served as a teacher in Hollywood, Florida, and then a police officer in S. Florida.
On July 26, 1975, Mike married Julia Higgins in Hollywood, Florida. Their first son, Jonathan, was born in 1976, in Plantation, Florida. Shortly thereafter, the family relocated to Kansas City, Missouri. Their second child, Christopher, was born in 1980. Michael then had a 20-year career as a nurse in the KC Metro area. He retired from nursing in the early 90’s.
Mike was an avid reader, and was also very active in the St. Peter’s parish, as well as Knights of Columbus. Prior to moving to Kansas City he served as a Marianist Brother in the Catholic Church.
He enjoyed baseball, and was a loyal fan of the KC Royals. He and Julie enjoyed walking around the many Kansas City parks. He loved spending time with his three grandchildren, as well. He also loved telling jokes.
The Spaeth family was very close-knit, and Mike often travelled to visit his siblings. He also joined his father and brothers on a yearly Catholic retreat in Florida.
Mike and Julie were married for 45 years, and loved celebrating their anniversaries with their sons and grandchildren.
Mike’s family would like to express their gratitude to the doctors and nurses at KU Medical Center and to the personnel at K.C. Hospice House.
The family will celebrate his life at St. Peter’s Catholic Church at 701 East Meyer, on May 21, 2021, where his soul will be entrusted to God. The visitation will be at 9:30 AM followed by a mass at 11:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations for St. Peter’s Food Pantry, or the Kansas City Hospice House Foundation, 1500 Meadow Lake Parkway, Suite 200, Kansas City, MO 64114
