Richard A Spangle

Richard Alan Spangle passed away peacefully on July 17, 2025, at Syringa Hospital, with his family close by and his journey at rest. He was 79.
Born on October 15, 1945, in Willits, California, to Jack Delbert Spangle and Audrey Ardell Snider, Richard grew up with a deep love for the outdoors that would shape his life. Even as a young man, he found purpose and peace in the woods. While still attending Willits High School, he worked for Burke Logging-An experience that not only deepened his love for the timber but also brought him closer to Colina Nell Burke-his high school sweetheart and, in time, his wife.
Richard and Colina were married on September 16, 1967. Just one year later, he was serving his country in the United States Navy aboard the USS John W. Thomason (DD760), where he remained until his honorable discharge in 1971.
After his service, Richard and Colina made their home in Fresno, California. Richard began work as an HVAC mechanic, honing his skills and building trusted relationships. Just before Christmas one year, he made the bold decision to leave his job and start his own business. In 1979, Richard A. Spangle Air Conditioning, Inc. was born. With determination and the support of clients who believed in him-he grew the company from the ground up. He often recounted stories from those early days, reflecting on humble beginnings, loyal friendships, and the pride he took in building something of his own. He retired in 2016.
Together, Richard and Colina raised three children-Jennifer, Heather, and Richard-who added meaning and depth to their journey. Their children remained a part of their story, standing beside them through the turns and seasons of life.
A devoted outdoorsman, Richard found his truest joy in nature. Whether on a hunt, riding a good mule, or casting a line into quiet waters, he felt closest to God under an open sky. The mountains were his sanctuary-places of reflection, reverence, and deep contentment.
Richard's quiet pride in his children and the generations that followed persisted, even when words fell short. He held close memories of what had been, and the hope of peace for those he loved.
In 1996, Richard and Colina purchased a piece of land in Nezperce, Idaho-an area that spoke to Richard's heart. It was there, in the solitude of his retirement and the comfort of the land, that he spent his final months.
Richard is survived by his wife, Colina Spangle, brother Jack D. Spangle, Jr. (Jeri Spangle), and sister Judy Thorton; his children: Jennifer Holcomb (Lance Holcomb), Richard Spangle (Megan Spangle), and Heather Morris; eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Graveside services will be held on August 8, 2025 at Noon at the Ukiah Cemetery (940 Low Gap Road, Ukiah, California, 95482), where Richard will be laid to rest-amongst family, near where his life with Colina began, and where he will await her return to his side.
In the stillness of the woods, in the hush of mountain trails, and in the laughter of those who carry his name forward-Richard's spirit remains.
May he walk through your wilderness with waters and woods abundant with life. Lord, we pray he rides a strong mule and leads a solid string through the tall pines of your world, wrapped in your love and peace through all eternity.
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