Darrell Spilde

Darrell Eugene Spilde
April 18, 1936 – April 25, 2025
Darrell Eugene Spilde passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025, at the age of 89. Born
in Powell, South Dakota, on April 18, 1936, to Norman and Inez (Goodell) Spilde,
Darrell grew up in the rugged beauty of Custer, South Dakota, where his adventurous
spirit and deep curiosity about the world first took root.
After graduating from Custer High School, Darrell attended the University of Wyoming
and the University of South Dakota, preparing for a career that would take him around
the world. As a field geologist and mining engineer, he worked for several prominent
mining companies, including Homestake Mining, NERCO, and American Mines Service.
His work carried him across the United States and beyond-from the plains of northeast
Wyoming and the mines of Upper Michigan to the mountains of Washington and Alaska.
He also lived and worked internationally in Yellowknife, Canada, and Turkey, always
bringing with him a love of exploration, a sharp intellect, a reputation for excellence in
his field and his concern for the welfare and safety of those he worked with.
Darrell's professional life was matched by his warm, spirited personality. Those who
knew him-both personally and professionally-admired his loving, kind, funny, and
spirited nature. He was a prankster and storyteller, an intrepid adventurer, and an avid
reader, gardener, and traveler. His sense of humor, sharp wit, and endless curiosity
made him unforgettable.
He was most proud of his family. Darrell shared 64 wonderful years of marriage with his
beloved wife Mary Spilde, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and
meaning. He is lovingly remembered by his four children and their spouses: Bruce and
Cheryl Spilde, Lynda and Brant Moore, Laurie and Ott Gaither, and Mark and Heidi
Spilde and brother-in-law, Keith Conway and his wife Robin. Darrell leaves behind eight
grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy. He is
also survived by his brother, Michael Spilde of New Mexico.
Darrell was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Inez Spilde.
A private family celebration of Darrell's life will be held on August 10 in Vancouver,
Washington.
Darrell's legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the stories he told, and the deep,
enduring love he gave. He will be missed more than words can say-and remembered
with laughter, gratitude, and profound respect.