Obituary of Richard Thomas Spradbrow

August 22, 1937 – May 9, 2025

With heavy hearts, the family announces the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Richard Thomas Spradbrow, who passed away on May 9, 2025, at the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg at the age of 87.

Born in Regina, Richard was the only child of Thomas and Elsie Florence Spradbrow. His family moved to Winnipeg when he was young, and he grew up in the River Heights and Fort Garry neighborhoods.

Richard earned a Bachelor of Science with a specialty in Physical Education from the University of North Dakota, and later returned to Manitoba to complete his Education Degree at the University of Manitoba. Each summer during his studies, he joined his parents in North Vancouver, where they had retired — a time that left him with cherished memories.

Richard dedicated his career to teaching and coaching, impacting the lives of thousands of Manitoba youth. He taught at Charleswood Collegiate, Assiniboine Community College, and in the St. Boniface, Pembina Trails, and Windsor Park school divisions. Throughout his career, he coached track and field, soccer, and volleyball, and mentored countless students.

He retired in 1992 at the age of 55 from Frontenac Elementary and continued to share his love of golf by working at River Oaks Golf Course. Golf was a lifelong passion, and Richard loved organizing tournaments and outings with friends and family.

In his twenties, Richard met the love of his life, Irene (Overwater). They were married for 57 years. Shortly after marrying, Richard accepted a position at Assiniboine Community College in Brandon, where they welcomed their first two sons, Donald and Christopher. The family later returned to Winnipeg and settled in Charleswood, where daughters Wendy (Harper) and Karen completed their loving household.

Summers were filled with canoe trips, camping adventures, and blended family gatherings that created lifelong memories. Richard was always at the heart of these times — connecting, guiding, and bringing joy.

He was a proud and loving grandfather to Richard M., Vicky, and Tarin, and a beloved brother-in-law to Anne, Al, Mary, Bill, Grant, Elaine, Albert, Rose, Dini, Stan, Mike, Tom, Jadwiga, Margaret, and Rene. He was also the “Fun Uncle” to their children, and beloved father-in-law to Bill and Joel; remembered fondly by all.

Richard, Son, Dick, Mr. Spradbrow, Coach, Dad, Uncle Dick, Grandpa, Daddy — no matter what name we called you, you were a constant source of love, laughter, and inspiration. We were so lucky to have you in our lives, and we will miss you terribly.

As per Richard's wishes, there will be no formal funeral. A celebration of life will be scheduled for a later date