Russell Spading

Russell V. Spading 97 of St. Paul Park/Newport, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2016 at the Minnesota Veterans Home Minneapolis. Russell was born the 14th child to Frank & Inez (Fletcher)in Beardsley, Minnesota. He grew up in Browns Valley graduating from high school with 23 classmates, of which three remain. Russ served 5 years in the US Army during WWII, stationed in Italy, Germany and England serving in the communications field. Upon returning from WWII he was set up on a blind date by his best friend and later married, Alice L. McCandless of Manannah, MN. They settled in Minneapolis then moved to St. Paul Park where they raised five daughters. He worked for General Tire Company in St. Paul for over 30 years. After retirement he worked for Dakota County Children's home to keep busy. He loved his family, friends and fishing. He was a member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in St. Paul Park and a member and Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus.
He is Preceded in death by his loving wife, Alice. Survived by daughters, Cathie, Sue (Tony) Czerniak, Becki (Ray) Bestler, Cindy and Anita; grandchildren, Renae (Jon) Antolick, Randy (Caroline Jacobsen) Bestler; great grandchildren, McKinney, Nora and Elise; sister, Lucille Birchem. Funeral service 10:30, Tuesday, Dec. 27 at Kok Funeral Home (7676 80th St. S., Cottage Grove) with visitation starting at 9:30. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. He will be greatly missed.