Richard O. "Dick" Spedowske age 68, lifelong resident of Big Rapids, passed away unexpectedly Monday, October 12, 2020. He was born September 28, 1952, the son of James and Eleanor (Wheeler) Spedowske. Dick was an amazing husband, father, son, and brother. He was a "silent helper" that was always there for anyone in need. Dick was a 1970 graduate of Big Rapids High School and later enlisted in the United States Army honorably serving his country. Dick married his best friend and love of his life, Virginia "Ginny" Watson, on June 5, 1976, and since then they have stayed on their forever honeymoon. Dick was employed for 33 years by Ferris State University on the grounds crew he then switched to the moving crew and eventually retired as a painter. He devoted himself to serving his community as a City of Big Rapids Fire Fighter for 39 years. Dick spent his time outdoors; rifle and bowhunting deer and turkey, fishing in his boat, and ice fishing. He enjoyed spending hunting season up in Menominee at deer camp since 1986. Dick also liked playing mens slow-pitch softball, bowling, and golfing. He looked forward to riding his Harley Trike to get ice cream and especially taking the summer bike trip for the last nine years with his wife, brother, sister-in-law, and friends. Dick was proud to become an ordained minister and was able to marry his niece and her husband. He was a member of the Big Rapids Eagles Aerie 2535 and Resurrection Life Church of Big Rapids. Dick also was a Hunters Safety Instructor for many years. Dick is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Ginny; son, Justin (Lynette) Spedowske; mother, Eleanor Spedowske; step-grandson, Justin Bott; two brothers, James Jr. (Shelley) Spedowske and Daniel (Gretchen) Spedowske; brother-in-law, Mike (Maggie) Watson; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father James Spedowske, mother and father-in-law Myra and Earl Watson, sister-in-law Marsha (David) Brantley and family. A memorial service will take place 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 16, 2020, at Resurrection Life Church in Big Rapids with Pastor Ross Scheer officiating. The family will greet friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 15th and one hour prior to the service on Friday, all at the Church. The family asks that you bring a piece of paper with your name and address and leave it in the box provided by the funeral home (in substitution of the register book) or you can sign the guestbook, leave a condolence, or share a memory on our website at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com The family is being cared for by Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Homes of Mecosta County. Memorial Service Friday, October 16, 2020 11:00 AM Resurrection Life Church 14734 215th Avenue Big Rapids,MI 49307 Visitation Thursday, October 15, 2020 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Resurrection Life Church 14734 215th Avenue Big Rapids,MI 49307 Visitation Friday, October 16, 2020 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Resurrection Life Church 14734 215th Avenue Big Rapids,MI 49307