Richard Charles Spinal Jr.

June 15, 1941-Oct. 3, 2024

Dick was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. As a boy, he helped his parents (Dick and Jenny) with their restaurant business. He attended Sacred Heart Seminary during his High School years and attended Walsh College in Canton, Ohio. He entered the Brothers of Christian Instruction and served as a teacher for 34 years. In addition, he earned two Master’s Degrees.

While on a retreat, he met Rita (Battaiola), the love of his life. They were married for 37 years and enjoyed numerous travel adventures including camping, fishing and hiking. Dick loved to play racquetball and pickleball. He and Rita spent much time volunteering to help the less fortunate.

Dick received certification in Pastoral Ministry and was Director of Pastoral Ministry at Holy Family Hospital in Spokane, WA for many years while Rita was a spiritual director and counselor at Samaritan Care.

After retirement, Dick and Rita moved to Minnesota where they resided in Cottage Grove before moving into Talamore Assisted Living in Woodbury

Dick is survived by his wife, Rita; his brother, Joseph (Spinali); two sisters, Phyllis (Spinal-Robinson), Chris (Spinal-Grabiel) and niece, (Marlee Risen). His cremains will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Detroit, MI along with his parents and other relatives.

A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, October 23 at 10:00 am at the Church of the Assumption, 51 West Seventh Street, St. Paul. There will be a visitation one hour prior. Cake and coffee will follow the service.

Dick will be remembered for his generosity and positive attitude with a spirit of support and love for his family and friends.

In place of flowers, donations are preferred to The Listening House of St. Paul, a favorite charity of Dick and Rita.