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George Joseph Spinner III

1947 - 2020

George Joseph Spinner III obituary, 1947-2020, Willoughby, AZ

BORN

1947

DIED

2020

George Spinner Obituary

George Joseph Spinner III, of Surprise, Arizona, passed away on October 14, 2020 at the age of 73. George was born in Cleveland in 1947 and graduated from Collinwood High School, Kent State University, and Edinboro University. George was a lifelong educator and administrator with Willoughby-Eastlake Schools; a beloved principal of Eastlake North High School during the 1980s and 90s. He also served the people of Eastlake both as a Councilmember and Mayor. George will be remembered as an avid Cleveland sports fan. He enjoyed golf and world travel. One of his proudest accomplishments was being a loving husband, father, and grandfather.George was preceded in death by his parents and sister Bonnie.He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Barbara; brother, David (Jan); children, Christine (Zach), George IV, and Jeffrey (Keleigh); and ten grandchildren.A Memorial Mass in his honor is planned for Tuesday, October 20 at 6pm at Holy Redeemer Church, 15712 Kipling Ave. in Cleveland.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by News-Herald from Oct. 15 to Oct. 16, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for George Spinner

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Susan Kirkland

October 10, 2025

It´s hard to believe George has been gone 5 years already. You are still dearly missed George.

Roger Jafelice

October 13, 2024

Great Guy !

Susan Kirkland

October 10, 2024

It´s hard to believe it´s been 4 years already that George left us. You are missed

Sue & Bill

October 9, 2024

On cruises with George and Barbara. He was so much fun a great and true friend.

Joe DiBartolomeo

October 11, 2023

Mr. Spinner was a great guy, and I was honored to have him as my principle At Eastlake North rest in peace.

Love Joe DiBartolomeo class of 2002

Susan Kirkland

October 10, 2023

It´s hard to believe that you will be gone 3 years already. Enjoy your time in heaven until your beautiful wife joins you.

Susan Kirkland

December 6, 2022

George, it´s hard to believe you have been gone 2 years already. You are missed.

Heather Brunecz-Reed

December 5, 2022

Mr. Spinner was my principal at Eastlake North from 1994-1998 and always seemed to care so much about all his students and staff

Bill & Sue

October 9, 2021

Always remembering our very dear friend George. Whenever we think of you, we smile. You surely knew how to make a person laugh and be happy.

Susan Kirkland

October 9, 2021

I can´t believe it´s been a year that George passed. I pray that Barb and the family know how much he was loved and that he´s living life big in heaven.

Mary Skufca

October 31, 2020

I went to North when George and his wife taught there. I really liked them they were very nice teachers. George will be greatly missed.

Frank Bambic

October 27, 2020

I would like to express my condolences to Barb and family. I have many fond and happy memories of working with George at JFK Jr. High in Eastlake. It was a long time ago, but I still smile recalling many of those fun times. My thoughts and prayers to you all.

Pat Liebhardt

October 26, 2020

George was my first principal as an educator. He was wonderful to work for and always made us feel like we worked with him, not for him. We all work for our students!
Barb, you and George were such a support for my sons (Sean & Jonathon) and me, thank you! George will be missed and you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers! Peace to you!
Pat, Sean and Jonathon (Kelso)

John Galovic

October 24, 2020

Barb, Tina, George and Jeff
Please accept my warmest condolences, I am deeply sorry for your loss. George was one of the most ethical and honorable men I had the privilege to work with and to know. His legacy will be one of outstanding character. unfailing faith and courage. Character in all things and manifested in the saying, “We rise by lifting others!” George always was one to “lift others”. Faith in young people - something he modeled every day as he worked with the students put in his care. And courage to take a chance, to do that which most would not, and to stand up for what was right, even if he was the only one standing. He certainly was a light for all to follow.

Regina Peters

October 23, 2020

The best principal my children ever had! Great Educater. We only have praise for the man. Condolenses to Barb and her family.

David and Jan Spinner

October 22, 2020

Thank you to all who attended George's memorial mass.
It was such an out pouring of love and respect for him.
Thank you also for everyone who sent such beautiful flowers.
He will truly to missed.
David and Jan Spinner

Tabitha stull

October 21, 2020

He was a great princeable. Mr.spinner let me off easy a couple of times.he will be missed by many of us north students.

Genese Carberry

October 21, 2020

Mr. Spinner you were a one of a kind principal. There are so many memories of you in my 4 years at NHS. They range from you checking in on Mrs. Spinner's math class, to running up the stairs because Mr. Toth just could not work the pull down maps without making a ruckus, some days you were goofy, some days so serious. You made NHS what it was. To the Spinner family, I am truly sorry for your loss. NHS GRAD 2000

Rachel (Ryan) and Patrick Brickman

October 21, 2020

We are so sorry to hear of this tremendous loss. Mr. Spinner was an amazing principal. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their wonderful family. He will be missed but his impact will continue to make waves into the future.

Russ Nightengale

October 20, 2020

George was one of a kind! I was fortunate to know George for over 50 years. We commuted together while getting our masters at Edinboro. He was always upbeat and a pleasure to be around. Eventually we worked together at the Tech Center...George was the principal and I was his assistant. George never made you feel like you were working for him but working with him. George led by example and the staff and students loved him. My sympathy to Barb and his family.

Julie McLaughlin

October 20, 2020

Dear Barb,
I am sorry to hear about the loss of George. I do remember hearing how he was loved and respected by all at North High, from my brother (Charlie McMahon, and his family.) Condolences to your family.
Julie McLaughlin

Bob and Jan Sternot

October 20, 2020

Barb, thinking of you but we will not be able to attend services today as planned. You and George will be in our thoughts and prayers. Your friends, Bob and Jan Sternot

janetpickmantouschner

October 20, 2020

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Brian Rayl

October 20, 2020

George was a good friend, a strong supportive colleague, and an honorable man. My thoughts are with Barb and the family. So sorry for your loss.

David Scigliano

October 19, 2020

I remember him well as he was my teacher at Willowick Jr High . He was also my principal . He always was a very nice person to chat with as well as a fine teacher and principal. RIP Mr Springer.

Cindy Aubin

October 19, 2020

I could not feel sorry about the loss. George was one of my favorite people to work with.

Mary Hradesky

October 19, 2020

Barb & family,
George was a great principal and friend who will be truly missed.
You have our deepest sympathy.
Jim and Mary Hradesky and family

Sally Wanchisn

October 19, 2020

...and God certainly blessed our family knowing and growing with the Spinner family...thanks for the memories..God Bless❤

Barbara Strumbel

October 19, 2020

Barb, Tina, George IV, and Jeff,
My deepest sympathies go out to you. May my thoughts, prayers, and well-wishes bring you comfort.
Barb Strumbel

Eternal Friendship Remembrance Bouquet - VASE INCLUDED

Harvey Bell

Sent Flowers

Jim & Angela Simsek

October 19, 2020

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Bruce DeMarco

October 19, 2020

A Good Man. George was always ready to contribute and those contributions have made the world a better place.

Jamie Tominack Hayes

October 18, 2020

I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Spinner. He was such a kind man and a wonderful principal. I’m thinking of all of you during this difficult time.

Tony Masci

October 18, 2020

George was a good person. The world is now a little less humanistic with this loss.

Tony Masci

October 18, 2020

George was a good person. The world is now a little less humanistic with this loss.

craig simonson

October 18, 2020

So sorry to hear of Georges passing. George was my ATO Big brother at Kent state a consummate roll model My deepest sympathy's to all

Pat & Jeff Silversteen

October 18, 2020

Barb and family, I am so sorry for the loss of George. He always had such a mischievous smile on his face. His sense of humor and jokes still make me laugh , espies when I think about the chicken/feathers.

Prayers are with you all, if there is anything that we can do, please ask.

Marie Forsell Fill

October 18, 2020

I am saddened to hear of Mr. Spinner's passing and I send my condolences to all of his family and friends. I was so disappointed that I missed having him as my principal by one year being that I changed from teaching at Eastlake & Willowick Middle Schools to teaching at North the year he retired. However, I was blessed to know him as I taught his youngest son in 8th grade and then taught with Barb. The Spinner family is special and near and dear to all Ranger hearts. May God bless you all in this time of need especially.

Marilyn Harman

October 18, 2020

Barb, you were so kind to me when I was a 1st year teacher at North. Then George was principal at Willoughby Tech when I went there 5 years later. He was compassionate and supportive of his staff and always had a smile for all. You are both well loved.

Dr. Jack Bakee

October 18, 2020

George was a good man, a fraternity brother and friend. My condolences go out to his family. His was a life well lived.

Joe DiBartolomeo

October 18, 2020

He was a great principal and just someone that u can go talk to ranger pride

Sandy Isom

October 17, 2020

Tina and Spinner family - I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Spinner was such a kind man with a sweet smile. Thank you for sharing him with all of us for so many years. Sending you love and peace to find comfort in the days ahead.

Wendy

October 17, 2020

Love and healing to the Spinner family. What a wonderful man. Be proud ❤❤
Deepest Condolences,
Wendy Wanchisn

Mr. & Mrs. Edward A. Zell and son Frank G. Zell

October 17, 2020

We are sorry to here the loss of George Spinner ! May He Rest In Peace We both graduated the same year of 1965 ! We were classmates in the same school. Jr. to Senior High, and he became our Son ‘s Principal at his School . Prayers goes out to the family and in time will heal your loss put never forgotten

Noel Overbaugh-Cagnina

October 17, 2020

Mr. Spinner was admired by myself and so many young adults as a leader in education.
When he spoke to students he had the ability to touch their hearts and make them want succeed in life.
I thank him for his guidance.
My deepest condolences to the family and thank you again Mr. Spinner for making an impact on so many lives.

Jeff Morganti

October 17, 2020

George had a wonderful personality and sense of humor. He had a positive impact on many students and staff at North High School. God bless you, George! You will be missed! Thoughts and prayers to Barb, Tina, Jeff & George IV.

Dave Mary and Rocco Pisano

October 17, 2020

Dear Barb and family
We are so sorry to hear about the passing of George..
He was a wonderful person
May God bless you at this difficult time

Love

Carolyn Arwood

October 17, 2020

I was shocked and saddened to read about George! He had such a bubbly personality, and was one of those people you'd think would be around forever! My heartfelt sympathies go out to Barb and the entire family! May he rest in peace. Heaven gained another angel!

Karin Maniche

October 17, 2020

Barb
I feel blessed to say that George was my colleague and friend. You and George had such a wonderful marriage; I hope that your memories will bring you and your children comfort. Memories are treasures and my memories of George are priceless.

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Jen Lyndall

Planted Trees

Harriet & Charley Reynolds

October 17, 2020

George was a wonderful neighbor and loving friend. Ace, you will be missed.

Susan Kirkland

October 17, 2020

Barb, I am so sorry for your loss and I pray the wonderful memories you shared with George help you through these tough times ahead.

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Bonnie hansen

Planted Trees

Candace Kovacs Pourciau

October 17, 2020

Thank you George for having been a fantastic face in the education system that I was able to enjoy. It was wonderful being a student during your tenure at Eastlake North. God Bless.

Betty & Fred Wresh

October 17, 2020

Barb and family
I knew George was a very special person the first time I met him.I was correct, he was a true honest friend. I'm glad I had a chance to meet George, George will be missed by everyone at Sun City Grand who knew him..We both will. Barb, you will miss George but god will walk with you.
Our deepest sympathy, and prayers.

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Theresa Laning

Planted Trees

Jon And Jackie Peltz

October 16, 2020

Mr. Spinner always listened, always treated us kids with respect, listened to us and always have kind words to say to all of us. It was a pleasure to be one of those kids at North High and the Tech Center. The world truly lost a good person. My he rest in peace.

Frank & Angela Zanella

October 16, 2020

We have been friends with his family since high school. His personality, always a gentleman and his wit made him endearing. George will always live on in many hearts.

Bob And Linda Ormston

October 16, 2020

So very sad to hear of George’s passing. We will always have great memories of him and his family. He was one a kind and will be missed

Jane Cosiano

October 16, 2020

Mr.Spinner, always with a smile and laughing at us goofy kids! I have so many fond memories with you and some other students helping us to be better people. You were always the voice of reason. My thoughts and prayers to the Spinner family. ❤

Keri Vidmar-Wick

October 16, 2020

Mr.Spinner was always that smiling face that was there to mentor the youth. He taught many of us in a way he will always be remembered as a estute mentor.

Andy

October 16, 2020

Such a sad loss for everyone that knew Mr. Spinner. He was a inspiration to me during my high school years. My condolences to the Spinner family

Kate Hostetter

October 16, 2020

God Bless the Spinner Family! God called George home! George was the epitome of a a good man! He was the role model for so many! What a joy it was to know George and his beloved family! It was an honor and a pleasure to work with George at North. Love, prayers and sympathy are sent to Barb, Tina, George IV, Jeff and their families! Bless You! Kate

Diane Zisis

October 16, 2020

My deepest sympathies to the Spinner family. What a wonderful person! May his memory be eternal!

Lynne Thomas

October 16, 2020

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Loving Light Dishgarden

Andrea Gordon

Sent Flowers

Al Maroli

October 16, 2020

Dear Barb and Family,
My deepest condolences. I am fortunate to have known George as a friend since the 9th grade at Collinwood HS and throughout college together at Kent. He was a great friend and a really exceptional person. For sure, our world is a better place for having had George in it. I'll hold on to the memory of his friendship forever.

Dominic

October 16, 2020

George was a great man. He will be missed by many people. RIP George. So sorry for your loss

Lisa Sutyak Shaw

October 16, 2020

Mr. Spinner was awesome! So thankful he was such a great part of North High School. My condolences to his family

Angela (Sosnowski) Ugran

October 16, 2020

I am so sorry for your loss. I was a student at North High in the 1980's. He truly was loved by so many students.

Lisa Ackim

October 16, 2020

Cousin Barbara,
So sorry to hear about Cousin George's passing. Sending love and light to you and the family. ❤
Cousin Lisa

Linda Leko Sheets

October 16, 2020

Dear Barb, I am sorry I never met your husband, but I certainly know the pain and sorry you are feeling now. My heart goes out to you and your family. Sending hugs and prayers.

Jenn Arndt

October 16, 2020

Mr. Spinner was an AMAZING person. The world needs more people like him. He will truly be missed and I am blessed to have known him.

Joe Kerata

October 16, 2020

I will always smile when I think of George. He may be gone, but the smiles will continue on. What a great legacy. He handled a demanding profession with grace and humor. We are all honored to have worked with him and to have known him as a friend. Love to Barb, Jeff, George, and Tina.

Joe Kerata

Bill & Susan Bielecki

October 16, 2020

George is our super dear friend, love traveling together, always fun, always happy, he will be deeply missed by us. He will always be in our hearts and minds. Our very sincere condolences to Barbara and their wonderful family. Love you George!

Shannon Whinnery

October 16, 2020

Mr. Spinner was so amazing. He was my principal from 1996-2000. He seemed to love his job and all the students! I remember we all put him in a chair and carried him down the halls one time like a king cuz we all loved him! This is an extreme loss for everyone. He will be missed dearly.

Belle Ami

October 16, 2020

So sorry to read of Mr Spinner's passing. He touched so many lives and transnformed students into productive citizens. A truly fine example of a man. He made a difference.

Carmen Rincon

October 16, 2020

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. I am deeply sorry for your lost. DEP

Michael E Hlebak

October 16, 2020

George was a great man and Principal. He is one of the main reasons that I stayed in school and graduated. He took his job seriously and guided many young people during the hard times in their lives. RIP Mr. Spinner. Condolences and love to the family

LaKish Delaney-Muscenti

October 16, 2020

Thank you so much Mr. Spinner! You really made new feel included even when I felt like a complete outcast at Eastlake North. I will always remember your smile, kindness and understanding. You were a great example for our school district and beyond. God bless your family and loved ones.

Jackie Stankus

October 16, 2020

Barb and family God blessed you with a man who gave to all the children more then percent. He opened his heart to all of them. He spoke softly yet they listened carefully. George God’s given gifts were never put on a shelf they were given out to all who met him. Hopefully more educations can take advantage of the example he has set. (He set the bar very high). Tough time but remember the joy of his life here on earth and the rapture as he rest in Jesus arms. God be with you all now. Jackie Stankus

Wendi Strodtbeck

October 16, 2020

Was a great guy. Used to stop in at his shop and talk for hours. My deepest condolences and prayers

Fish

October 16, 2020

Barb. Our deepest condolences and prayers to you and your family from some old Pennellwooders

Fish

Betty

October 16, 2020

My deepest heartfelt sympathy to your family .
Mr Spinner was one of my teachers at Kennedy Jr High. He had a general soul. RIP

Chuck/Kathy

October 16, 2020

George was a wonderful neighbor and a friend for almost 40yrs on RIDGEWOOD DR. The URBAN Family will surely miss his loving smile and Joyful laughs.. Please accept our very deepest sympathy. We love you all Chuck/Kathy Laura/Chip Urban....

Kate Capuano

October 16, 2020

I remember Mr Spinner. Hebwas a great principal when I went to Eastlake North. He really was an amazing man. I didn't get into trouble ever, so I never saw his mean side, lol. But, from those I know that did, they said he was fair and handled things with dignity and respect. May his family and friends remember the good times and celebrate his life during this difficult time and for decades to come. He would want that. Blessing of peace to you all.

Rick McIntire

October 16, 2020

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Judith Artino

October 16, 2020

My heartfelt condolences. Mr. spinner took my son under his wing and helped him during the rough years of middle school. What a great man.

Amy Nelson ( Heym )

October 16, 2020

Mr Spinner was such a great principal and wonderful man. I was just showing my girls pictures from prom and after prom with him in his visor dealing out cards for our casino night.

I wish you all peace in this time. Tha m you for sharing him with all of us kids back then

Bob Fortuna

October 16, 2020

Prayers and thoughts to Barb and the family. George always made you feel like he knew you for 20 years. Personable and just good person. He will be missed.

Lora Doytek

October 16, 2020

He was my principal at North, such a wonderful man...may you fly with the angels. Sending prayers to the family

Shawana Johnson

October 16, 2020

Dear Barb and Family,

What an honor it is to have known and grown up with you and George during my high school years. I am so thankful for the way both of you poured guidance and support with a healthy dose of fun into my life. George personified kindness and strength in all he did at North High School and in life with his friends and family. I am so thankful to remember his warm smile and that we have been able to stay in touch over the years. May God comfort you Barb and your beautiful family in the loss of George. He impacted and encouraged so many young lives....a great man married to a great woman.

Love, Shawana Johnson
Student

Steve

October 16, 2020

We were proud and blessed to have George in our lives.
He will be missed.

Dr. Ruth Ann Plate

October 16, 2020

George was a bright articulate professional educator with wit and
humor that was unmatched. His empathy for students and staff was evident in all that he did. Loved his winsome ways. Will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by his colleagues in the educational community. My love and condolences to his loving family.
Ruth Ann Plate

Paul Greene / Purcell

October 16, 2020

I’m sorry for your loss he was a great principal and a great man gentle but tough. I will never forget hearing how he could rip a yellow pages phone book in half until I saw it in person.

Deborah Foley

October 15, 2020

I’ve known George for many years. I worked at Foley’s Karnival Kream and he worked at Mike’s Beverage with both shops sharing a parking lot. He always had such joy working and he never failed to smile and wave. Years later, I met him when he was North’s principal. Again, he showed such joy. Every time we talked, I felt uplifted and always knew that George was one special person. He defined love, joy, family and living for others Rest in our Lord’s hands for you deserve eternal peace, my friend.

Paul Greene

October 15, 2020

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. He was a great person and a great principal at Eastlake North.

Joyce and Bill Stefancic

October 15, 2020

What can anyone say about George? Respected educator, funny, kind, genuinely involved with both kids and faculty. My fondest memory of George was at a cookout at our house. George got on the floor with our dog and had a tug of war, each with one end of our dog's chew sock in their mouths. It was the only time I ever heard George growl. George will surely be missed. Our sincere condolences to Barb and the entire Spinner family.

Joe Mastroianni

October 15, 2020

He was my Guidance Counselor in my junior high school 1973. Always helpful, happy, and cheery. I even went and watched him play softball. Great memories of him. Sorry to hear of his passing. Prayers for the family.

Jan Sternisha

October 15, 2020

Barb and family, so sorry to hear about George, a great man with a fabulous family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Love, Jan and Todd Sternisha

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