SPRINGFIELD, IL – Dennis Michael "Denny" Spindel, 70, passed away Saturday, July 17, 2021, after enduring a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Denny was born October 6, 1950 in Pana. He was the second of three sons born to Philip and Moriene (Rhodes) Spindel. Upon his graduation from Nokomis High School in 1968, Denny entered the US Army, serving during the Vietnam War, assigned in photography and cartography. After being honorably discharged, Denny worked a short time at the Department of Transportation in Springfield, prior to beginning his life career with City, Water, Light and Power of Springfield, retiring in 2003.

On October 1, 1972, Denny married the love of his life, Merrie Lynn Arter, and walked together through their shared life's journey for almost 49 years.

Denny is not a person who can be summed up in facts and figures, however. To know him was to love him. He lived life on his own terms, and was uniquely "himself." Denny never knew a stranger, had a bright quick wit, and was a lovable practical joker to people of all ages. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to family, friends, neighbors, and anyone in need. An avid reader, he plowed through western novels and Civil War history books at rapid speed. The crossword puzzles in the daily newspapers were easily matched by his sharp mind and storage of general knowledge.

Denny lived life to the fullest, enjoying people, pets, fishing, riding on his Harley motorcycle, and engaging in many travel adventures with Merrie Lynn, throughout their working days, and even more-so after they retired from their respective jobs. He enjoyed his weekly bowling nights and the many friends he made there and enjoyed frequent trips to the boat.

Although Denny and Merrie Lynn had no children of their own, there are many whose lives they have deeply touched. As an uncle and "second father" to some, Denny made a connection with kids that was life-changing, inspirational, and fun. Although he kidded the heck out of them, he also let them know how much he believed in them, and their capacity for greatness.

Denny was skilled at drawing attention away from himself to focus on others. His optimism and positivity, particularly during the various health challenges he faced, was even noted by his attending physicians and medical personnel.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his older brother, Chet; his younger brother, Terry; and his brothers-in-law, Donald Arter and Ricardo Becerril.

His presence will be greatly missed by those surviving who loved him dearly: his wife, Merrie Lynn; many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, "adopted" kids, friends and neighbors.

A memorial gathering will be held from 3:00 p.m. until the time of a memorial service at 5:00 p.m. Saturday, July 24, 2021, at Vancil-Murphy Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to POW/MIA, Hall's Harley Davidson Ride to Remember, Peacekeepers Inc. or charity of choice.