Russell Michael Spinelli

He was born on March 29, 1957 in Chicago, Illinois to Frank and Catherine Spinelli and grew up in South Chicago with his two sisters, Francesca and Trish.

Russ went on to study at the University of Iowa, where he met the love of his life, Cindy. Together, they built a life full of laughter, raised three loving children, and were beautiful life partners.

Russ loved visiting Hawaii and took his family on many trips to the islands. His love for the relaxing energy, culture and picturesque landscape has been present in all aspects of his life.

Russ had a successful career as a State Farm Insurance agent. He was a trusted and reliable partner to his clients. He forged many lasting friendships in State Farm and joined them in travel, on stage in blues/rock cover bands (RPM) and road tripping.

Russ loved spending time outside – taking walks or bike rides at Morton Arboretum, relaxing poolside with the family or on the court hitting tennis balls.

Russ was a skilled guitarist and loved to fill his days playing music. His love for music is shared by his children. Many family gatherings featured jam sessions led by Russ. You could always hear Russ playing guitar throughout the house.

Russ was a loving caregiver for his family. He went out of his way to make sure everyone was taken care of and never had to worry about anything. He was always there to guide and steer the family.

Russ brightened the room with his quick wit and sense of humor. He loved to entertain the room with a joke or bit of trivia. His profound, contagious laugh will be tremendously missed.

Russ was preceded in death by his parents Catherine and Frank Spinelli, sister Francesca Spinelli, and father-in-law Bill Price. Russ is survived by his wife of 41 years, Cindy Spinelli, sister Trish VanBuskirk (Mark), son Michael Spinelli (Katie), two granddaughters, Zora and Addie, who lovingly call him ‘Gada’; daughter Tessa Loughran (Jon), and son David Spinelli (Mallory), mother-in-law Willetta Price ‘Grammie’, along with extended relatives and friends.

In his memory, the family plans to have a Celebration of his Life on Friday May 10, 2024 from 11am-2pm CST at the Morton Arboretum. The celebration will take place at the Thornhill Education Center on the west side of the Arboretum. Please join us at any time between 11am-2pm for a bite to eat, refreshment (Russ style) and reflection.

Directions to Morton Arboretum:

Located just 25 miles west of Chicago, The Morton Arboretum—4100 Illinois Route 53 in Lisle, IL 60532—is just west of Interstate 355 and north of I-88 on Illinois Route 53 (sometimes known as Lincoln Avenue or Lincoln Highway).

Westbound I-88: Exit north onto Route 53. Proceed north ½ mile to the entrance on the right.

Eastbound I-88: Follow signs onto southbound I-355 and exit immediately to westbound Ogden Avenue (Route 34). Continue west on Ogden Avenue to Route 53 north. Proceed north one mile to the entrance.

I-355: Follow signs and exit onto westbound I-88. Exit north onto Route 53; Proceed north ½ mile to the entrance.

Directions to Thornhill Education Center

At the Welcome Booth, let them know you are attending the memorial service for Russ Spinelli. Turn right and follow signs for Thornhill Education Center. You can also enter “Thornhill Education Center” in Google Maps and it will guide you to the location. Parking will be available.