Harold Spindler

Harold F. Spindler, 89, Browns Valley, MN, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 22, 2020, at a care center in Monticello, MN.

Funeral Mass will be Monday, May 17, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Browns Valley with Father Gregg Frankman officiating. Music will be provided by Carmen Hills, Jill Spindler, and Pat Homan.

The service will be livestreamed on the Eggers Funeral Home Facebook page.

Burial will be in the Calvary Cemetery, Brown Valley. Pallbearers will be Harold's grandsons - Mark Spindler, Mike Spindler, Jr., Matt Spindler, David Spindler, Andrew Pelzel, and Isaac Spindler.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 16, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Browns Valley and will continue Monday one hour prior to the service at the church.

Harold Francis Spindler was born in Browns Valley on November 13, 1931, to Dena (Lubbers) and Albert Spindler. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Anthony's Catholic Church. Harold grew up on a farm near Browns Valley.  He attended school in Traverse County and graduated from Browns Valley High School in 1948.  He was an active member of 4-H and served as President of the 4-H Club. He also was a member of Royal Youth. After Harold graduated from high school, he began farming in the Browns Valley area.

On June 15, 1953, Harold was united in marriage to Helen Spotts at St. Anthony's Catholic Church.  In the fall of 1956, they moved to the farm where they raised their six children. Harold was a proud farmer and cared for his land. He also milked cows and raised cattle for many years before transitioning to a hog operation.  In 1985, Harold semi-retired and he and Helen moved from the main farmstead to the house that his parents had built. On December 12, 1997, Harold suffered the loss of his wife, Helen. For the next 20 years, he continued his love of farming-- planting a huge garden and supplying many family and friends with fruits and vegetables. In September 2017, Harold moved to St. Benedicts Senior Community in Monticello, MN, where he became friends with many of the residents and staff.

Harold was a life-long member of St. Anthony's Catholic Church. He was one of the founding members of the Browns Valley Knights of Columbus and proudly served for many years. He was also a member of the Folsom Township Board.

Harold was a man who believed in working hard, having fun, and spending time with family and friends. He never met a stranger. Some of his happiest times were when he travelled with his wife, family, and friends; he enjoyed sightseeing, made many memories and shared wonderful experiences. Harold was an avid Twins and Vikings fan. He enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sporting and school events even more. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.  Throughout his life, Harold experienced great joy while spending time at the lake; he loved fishing, boating, watching family members water-ski, eating and drinking, and spending time with others. He had a blast with his bowling team and often had them out to the house afterwards. You were always welcome at his home—and you never left hungry (or thirsty!) Harold was always in the mood for playing cards and he enjoyed many gambling excursions.

Harold's favorite role in life was being "Grandpa Harry" to his cherished grandchildren. He had a sparkle in his eyes and a grin on his face when he shared stories about his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Harold will be remembered for his infectious laugh, good humor and spirit. He will be deeply missed by many.

Preceding Harold in death was his wife, Helen (Spotts) Spindler; great-grandson, Ian Spindler; parents, Albert and Dena Spindler; siblings: Gerhard "Bud" Spindler, Helen Homan, William Spindler, Raymond Spindler, and Ethel Silbaugh; and infant twin sisters, Elizabeth and Gertrude.

Left to cherish Harold's memory include his six children: Mike (Joan) Spindler, Marilynn Spindler, Joan (Jonathan) Griebel, Julie May, Dennis (Diane) Spindler, and Dena Pelzel; 11 grandchildren: Mark Spindler, Ann (Greg) Spindler, Michael, Jr. (Erica) Spindler, Matthew (Samantha) Spindler, David Spindler, Jessica Soto, Jennifer (Darin) Sorenson, Emily Spindler, Isaac Spindler, Katrina (Matthew) Pelzel-Lehman, and Andrew (Rachel) Pelzel. He is also survived by 14 great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law: Jerry Silbaugh, Bill Spotts, Pat (Sonja) Spotts, and Pete (Yvonne) Spotts; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A special thank you to the staff at St. Benedicts Care Community and Monticello Care Center's hospice unit for their compassionate and wonderful care.