C. James "Babe" Spinale

Spinale, C. James "Babe"
Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church on Wednesday, December 27, 2017. Longtime resident of Webster Groves. Beloved husband of the late Josephine Spinale (nee Murabito); beloved father of Sharon (Denny) Sienaski and Denice (Dale) Skyles; dear Doda of Tony (Jessica) Skyles, Laura (Anthony) Lancia, Drew (Lauren) Skyles; our dear brother-in-law, uncle and friend to many.
Jim began his four decade long banking career with Manchester Bank where he rose to be Senior Vice President. In 1972, he co-founded the National Bank of Affton (Commerce). After retiring, he was Senior V.P. at Missouri State Bank.
During his banking career, Jim helped introduce the use of Master Bank Card to local merchants. He said the concept was a "hard sell". Jim arranged start-up financing for many St. Louis companies including Maritz, Kenrick Meats and many others.
Jim's favorite story was when Jack Taylor, Sr. approached the bank for start-up funds for Enterprise. The bank committee thought the idea of leasing cars would never succeed. Years later when Jim saw Mr. Taylor he would kiddingly ask how that leasing idea had worked out.
Jim was actively involved in community service. He served multiple terms as PTA President of Washington Park school. He was a board member of Sheltered Workshop and Affton Kiwanis.
In 2007, Jim was a member of the 1st Honor Flight from the St. Louis area. When he was in his 80's, he had a short career as a billboard model and character actor.
An avid golfer, Jim achieved three holes-in-one and golfed weekly at age 94.
Jim was also a longtime member of The Italian-American Bocce Club.
Services: Funeral from KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL, 10151 Gravois Rd., Saturday, December 30th, 9:00 a.m. to Annunciation Church for 9:30 a.m. Mass. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. Masses preferred or contributions to The National WWII Museum - New Orleans, 945 Magazine St., New Orleans, LA, 70130, www.nationalww2museum.org/give.
Visitation Friday, 3-9 p.m.