Eugene LaVerne “Gene”Spindler
MADISON–Eugene LaVerne “Gene” Spindler, age 76, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving wife and family, on Feb. 3, 2022. He was born on March 31, 1945, in Marshfield, the first of eight children of the late Norbert and Delores (Bell) Spindler. He grew up on the family farm in Rozellville, where he attended Columbus Catholic High School, graduating in 1963.
In December 1967, Gene graduated from UW-Madison with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. During college, he met and married the love of his life, Bonnie Rusch. They married on June 10, 1967, at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Wausau.
Shortly after graduating from UW-Madison, Gene was drafted into the US Army. He was honorably discharged from service in 1970 after serving in both the United States and Germany for two years.
Gene settled down in the suburbs of Madison where he and his wife raised their family. He was an active father to his three sons, taking on leadership positions in Boy Scouts and supporting all aspects of their sports and musical activities. Gene was a road warrior who enjoyed driving his family all over the country, including yearly trips down to Florida. He was also a beloved Grandpa to his five grandchildren. All three generations loved spending time together at the family cottage.
Gene worked for over 30 years at the State of Wisconsin. He was a Financial Officer for the Wisconsin Historical Society the last 22 years of his career. He retired from the State of Wisconsin on his 55th birthday but continued to help small companies and individuals with auditing and tax work. After retiring, he enjoyed travelling around the US, Aruba, Mexico, Canada and north to the family cottage in Minocqua.
From an early age, Gene loved bowling. He and his brothers were competitive bowlers, participating in local leagues and national tournaments around the country. He bowled for over 45 years, many with his wife and sons. Gene was an active member of the Sauk Trails-Madison Optimist Club and acted as treasurer for many years. He was also on the board at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Middleton.
Gene found joy in spending time with his friends and family in the daily activities of life. He loved to play Cribbage, Euchre and Sheepshead. He also enjoyed the outdoors; boating and caring for his lawn. Gene loved music of all kinds and enjoyed musicals at the Fireside Theatre. His love of music was passed down to his children. Any song that came on the radio, he could match with his whistle note for note. Gene will be remembered for honoring a simple conversation and sharing a good laugh.
Gene is survived by his wife, Bonnie; three sons, Sean (Becky) Spindler, Ryan (Vicki) Spindler and Tyler (Melissa) Spindler; and five grandchildren, Madelyn Spindler, Gareth Spindler, Morgan Spindler, Everly Spindler and Finnegan Spindler. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Marlene (Spindler) Weber and brother-in-law, Joel “Butch” Weber.
The family would like to thank the staff at Hyland Crossings Memory Care and express their gratitude to the nurses with Moments Hospice.
A funeral service will be held at Gunderson West Funeral and Cremation Care, 7435 University Ave., Middleton, at 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 12, 2022. Burial will be held at Middleton Junction Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.
Online condolences may be made at gundersonfh.com.
