Dennis K. Spader

Dennis Kenneth Spader, age 82, of Menomonie, WI, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Dennis was born on August 22, 1943, to John and Katie (Reichling) Spader at home on the family farm in Oldham, SD. As the eleventh of sixteen children, Dennis developed a deep sense of family, an admirable work ethic, and a lifelong love of creating a little mischief.

He left the family farm to pursue higher education, beginning in Kitchener, Ontario, and later transferring to Dubuque, IA, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology. As a conscientious objector, Dennis completed his alternative service at St. Joseph’s Home for Children in Minneapolis. He later earned his master’s degree in social work.

While in Dubuque, Dennis attended a dance where participants were computer-matched, and it was there he met the love of his life, Elizabeth Effertz, an only child from St. Paul, MN. They were married on August 19, 1967, and together built a life centered on love, strong values, and a shared sense of adventure. They raised three children in Menomonie: Gretchen Yonko; Jeremy Spader (Jessica Amberg); and Benjamin Spader (Shawndel). Dennis treasured time with his seven grandchildren: Cole, Jase, Olive, Otis, Khyler, Harper, and Riggens.

Dennis began his career in social work in 1977 with Dunn County Human Services, where he served until his retirement in 1994 as the Associate Director. Following his retirement, he began a new chapter as a consultant with Nikken, an international wellness company, where he encouraged others to live healthier lives. This phase of life opened the door to travel, new experiences, and deeper involvement in the community.

One of Dennis’s greatest joys was his involvement with the Menomonie Optimist Club, where he eventually served as president. His legacy of service, kindness, leadership, and commitment to living an optimistic life will continue through all who knew and loved him.

Dennis had a deep love for fishing and for traveling on his motorcycle, both of which brought him great joy throughout his life. Whether it was time spent on the water or out on the open road, these moments reflected his adventurous spirit and appreciation for life. These passions were only rivaled by the love he had for his family. Dennis and Elizabeth shared an especially adventurous retirement, with some of their most cherished time spent traveling together on the motorcycle to destinations across the country.

Dennis was an incredible man who loved his family with every ounce of his soul. He gave us a lifetime of lessons, wisdom, laughter, adventures, and a depth of love that is difficult to fully express. He consistently found ways to bring light, humor, and perspective to those around him.

In January 2025, Dennis was diagnosed with primary brain central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma, a form of brain cancer. Throughout his journey, he faced this diagnosis with remarkable strength and an unwavering optimistic outlook. Even during the most difficult moments, he continued to bring light and humor to those around him. His courage and spirit were a powerful example to all who walked alongside him.

He is survived by his loving family and is preceded in death by several siblings and loved ones (*preceded in death): Clarence*, Vivian* (Vern*), Vincent* (Mary*), Donna Mae (Donnie*), Donelda (Leon), Donald* (Joyce), Darrel (Joan*), Darlene (Dick), Delphine (Don*), Duane (Elaine), Dean (Vikki), Dorenda* (Dave), Doyle* (Chris), Dann (Char), and Dallas (Cris).

Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the team at St. Croix Hospice. Their compassion, guidance, unwavering support, and humor allowed Dennis to remain comfortable at home while surrounding him with dignity, peace, and care. They not only cared for Dennis, but also supported our entire family in ways that will forever be cherished.

In one final act of generosity and giving back, Dennis donated his body to the Mayo Clinic Body Donation Program to support education and future medical advancements.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Olde Towne Banquet Hall, 903 Cedar Falls Road, Menomonie, WI 54751. In honoring Dennis’s wishes, this will be a casual, party-like gathering to share memories and celebrate a life well lived.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, if you wish to honor Dennis, please consider a donation to Stepping Stones of Dunn County (https://www.steppingstonesdc.org) or an organization of your choosing.

If you knew Dennis, you knew laughter, love, a little mischief, and a reminder to enjoy the ride.

To share a memory, please visit obituaries at www.olsonfuneral.com