Pat Spadini died peacefully and surrounded by love with his family by his side on April 22, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Hospice. Pat was born to Italian immigrant parents (Franco and Rina Spadini) in Windsor Ontario and loved to recount the stories of growing up on Wellington Avenue with his younger siblings, Maria and Frank, and his extended family. He cherished his Italian heritage, and in his final days he enjoyed reminiscing of his youth with those he shared that time of life with.
Pat chose to become a teacher which allowed him to reveal his passion for The Arts and theatre to young people. Those fortunate enough to be either a part of his productions or in an audience, were wonderstruck. He empowered young people to find themselves, and their greatness. In his final days he recounted some of his favorite productions, Little Shop of Horrors and Big River at JPII, and Jesus Christ Superstar and Les Miserables at CCH. His love of theatre extended beyond the classroom into the summers where he was an Artistic Director at Port Stanley Festival Theatre, and the Inaugural Artistic Director at the Pelee Island Theatre. His shows, which included many Norm Foster plays, delighted audiences night after night.
Another of Pat’s passions was the game of golf. He excelled in the game and enjoyed a few claims to fame in tournament play, as well as a hole in one at his beloved Oaks Golf and Country Club. He loved to play golf with friends. In his retirement, he spent his winters in Florida at Bobcat, living his dreams on the greens, in a snappy outfit or two.
His one true love beyond all of these things was his dearest Shannon. Their love story had many chapters and in his final days, she was there to curl up with him and be by his side until the very end. Although he was proud of all of his achievements, his pride and joy was being a Nonno to 4 beautiful grandchildren: Arabella, Vera, Milo, and Emilia. He felt truly blessed and proud to watch his daughters, Karla and Laura, grow to become exceptional women and mothers, crediting their strong work ethic and persistent nature to their upbringing. He will be dearly missed.
The world will never quite feel the same but our family is thankful for all of those who visited, called, or wrote to him during his final chapter. There was never going to be enough time with him, but the time we had was precious and meaningful. The kindness and care shown by the staff in the various LHSC departments at Victoria Hospital and at St Joseph’s Hospice, was unparalleled and beyond words.
We will remember his spark, his love, his friendship, and the way he made us feel. Even in his final days, Pat continued to teach all of us about life through his humility, love, acceptance of life’s mystery, and gratitude.
A special student of Pat’s wrote these words that summed things up perfectly:
“A few years ago, I read that one of the Latin roots of the word Education is educere – to “draw out” someone’s potential. As soon as I read that, I thought of you.”
As the final curtain draws to a close, we will choose to honour him by embracing challenges and finding joy in the simple things. We love you Dad.
Donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 6 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Grand Bend, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $3/km (one way travel only).
Sincere condolences to you all… So very sad to hear of this.
Shannon, Maria, Frank and families, I am sure your pain is deep. It was with great sadness that I had read about the loss of your husband, brother, father, grandfather…
Memories of our shared childhood was re-visited and I remembered all the visits and social time we had in Windsor and Pat with his musical skills back then!
Sending you my heartfelt condolences, you are all in my prayers.
Carmen Adamo & Mary Adamo
Dear Karla and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Shannon, we were so sad to hear of Pat’s passing. You will surely have many fond and entertaining memories of Pat – may they bring you some comfort in the days ahead as you grieve losing him. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Corrie and Harvey
We were truly saddened to hear of Pat’s passing. Please accept our belated condolences.
Sandro and Michelle Tesolin
Maria, Frank, Shannon. Karla, Laura and families,
We extend our sincerest condolences to all of you. We hope that the warm memories you have of your dear Pat will serve to comfort you all.
Francesco and Dilia Tesolin
Our deepest sympathy to Shannon, Carla, Laura and the family. Pat left a legacy of young people and adults who he encouraged to use their creative gifts and talents for the enjoyment of school communities and theatre lovers throughout Southwestern Ontario. He was a wonderful colleague and great storyteller. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers as you grieve Pat’s absence and recall your fond memories.
How do you express the impact of a friendship that lasts over 40 years? Pat was a very close friend of mine. From the early years of watching him create magical performances with his students at JPII to extending those talents later to CCH, it has been an honour to witness the influence he had on his students. On a personal level, we shared a love for the Detroit Tigers and our beloved Maple Leafs but most of all our passion for the game of golf. Hope heavens golf course allows the gimmes that you always asked for.
Pat’s creativity carried beyond the classroom through his many projects renovating for friends including myself. Lisa & I were amazed by the perfect studio space he created for her. In return that space inspires her everyday to express her creativity. Together we will both miss your friendship, laughter and sense of humour that only you could convey with a simple look. Our condolences to Maria, Frank, Shannon, Karla and Laura and their extended families.
We’ll miss you my friend.
Love you Barn.
Love Pat Clancy & Lisa Stead-Clancy
Very Sad News, I attended JPII and in my senior year Mr. Spadini took a chance on me and asked me to try out for a role in Big River… acting in a musical?!? Outside my zone.. but I’m glad he and Andrew Petrasiunas talked me into trying out and a being a part of Big River. It was truly one of my favourite memories of highschool.
I was fortunate enough to have gone back and coach football at JPII and would bump into Mr Spadini over the years… he was a good man, tell you how it is and genuinely cares.
My condolences to his family….
Considerable trouble…
Considerable Joy…
Rest easy Pat.. 🙏
Mr. SPADINI taught me in Gr. 7 at St. George’s. I don’t remember a lot of what he taught but I do remember how he made me feel….valued, and cared for. He was the best! I do remember his enthusiasm for teaching and his smile. He was very compassionate, kind and gentle. I remember that he could play the piano by ear …a talent of which I’ll always be envious! I believe he touched many lives within the education system. My deepest condolences to his family.
Our sincere condolences to the entire family. Rest in peace Pat
Anthony and Emma
Shannon, Laura and Karla…we are deeply saddened by Pat’s passing. We spent many happy times together in London and in Florida and those occasions will not be forgotten. There are very few people who could tell a story like he could…he was unique and we are very fortunate to have know him. We offer you our heartfelt sympathies at this very sad time.
Marilyn and Michael Stawecki
We are very sad to hear about the passing of Pat. I knew Pat briefly from both poker and bocce ball but I did feel a closeness to him. We wish we knew more about his theatre passion and talent, it would have been nice to talk with him about it.
He will be missed by many from his many passions from golf to theatre but he has truly let his mark to every one he has met.
Pat:
Thanks for your many years of teaching, guidance and laughter at CCH.
Rest in peace.
Max Lloyd
We are deeply saddened by Pat’s death. His humour and quick wit was something we will always remember.
Visits with Pat and Shannon were always filled with much laughter.
We will forever cherish the time we were able to spend with him in Florida last year.
Forever in our 💕
Colleen and Steve Bryksa
Our sincere condolences to Shannon and the Spadini family.
Sincerely,
Paul & Jane Trudell
Our walk in the hood this year will require a reverent pause in front of Pat’s house overlooking the cut (where Pat had the fall requiring stitches). My deepest condolences for your loss.
I also met Pat at Bobcat Trail and played many rounds with him. I have always been a big music buff and was astounded by his knowledge in the genre. I would play it on the golf course and it took awhile with some people to go along with it. Not so with Patrick. We ended up sharing recordings so both of us could enhance our collection. Fun to know and fun to be with. Never a dull moment as the saying goes. All the best to Shannon and family.
So sad to hear about Pat. Going way back to St. George’s elementary. Mr Spadini was my teacher and so much more. Just such a great guy. I would later run into Pat golfing and I’m sure we annoyed the other players as we caught up. My prayers and sincere condolences to the Spadini family.
Shannon, Karla and Laura, we are very sad to hear of Pat’s death. John and I knew him throughout our teaching careers and thought the world of him. When I started teaching at CCH, I quickly felt Pat’s friendliness as a colleague and could see his connection to the students. It was a wonderful gift to have Pat back for the last few years of his teaching career at CCH to work his theatre arts magic. His love of theatre and the amazing talent he nurtured in so many students will always be remembered.
Rest in peace, Pat.
I met Pat here at Bobcat Trail He played in my golf group for many years. Always
a pleasure to be around. Good golfer and a good friend. He will be missed and always be remembered ! So sorry he left us too early.
RIP
My condolences to the entire family. Pat was part of my high school life and career directly and indirectly.
Taking drama for 5 years at JP2 in the early 90s, working on the shows, taking an undergrad in theatre, becoming a teacher, assisting him with the last two shows at CCH before he retired and then shortly after teaching Drama at CCH for several years. He has always been a voice inside my head when I am involved in the theatre. Many of my Core memories are because of him. I hope I have been as impactful in my career to students as he was for me. Thank you Spadini!!
We knew if we were going to spend time with Pat and Shannon either in London or Florida there was going to be lots of laughter. We marveled at his ability to continue loving life while handling the many health issues he had to deal with. A good man who will be missed by so many. Our deepest condolences to his family. Love Doug, Heather and the Fitzmorris family
I am so sorry to hear of Pat’s passing. He was always a joy to be around. Our time teaching together at St. George was always filled with laughter. He was a great teacher who loved kids . Our prayers are with you Shannon and his kids and grandkids. RIP.
Dear Karla, Laura, and family,
I remember your dad at all our games, and how incredibly proud he was of you both. I remember him giving you, Spuds, a huge hug after you were in his performance at JP2 when you were just little, as I watched from the crowd.
I know your hearts are heavy. I’m sending you both the biggest and warmest hug as you navigate this difficult time. Love you both very much.
Hugs,
Tracey Lightfoot& Family
We met Pat at Bobcat with his friends Terry and John from London. The wives stayed at Rotonda which was close to the shopping areas. It was an instant bond with Pat and over the years we have enjoyed time spent with Pat and Shannon. Through the many health issues Pat faced Shannon was always there and Pat was the eternal optimistic and had a positive attitude through it all. Lyn and I will miss Pat very much but we are glad that we had the time to know him and love him.
George and Lyn. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Our deepest condolences to Pat’s family. We first met Pat as neighbors at Bobcat. And we soon grew to value his friendship. He will be sincerely missed.
Patti & Ken Ferron
I remember that sunny day in July 2016 when Shanon and Pat drove a great distance to visit with Maureen and I in Huntsville shortly after we had received the terrifying news that I had been diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. You spent the afternoon describing your medical journey to date and inspired Maureen and I to prepare for our journey. Your visit gave us hope and we have never forgotten that afternoon.
Your journey is over now and I like believe you are in a better place.
Your friend
Bob
Just discovered that Pat was called home to our Father in heaven. I taught with Pat. It was through him that I was introduced to Theatre Arts. I usually helped by running spotlights, sound etc.
One of the great plays was the Cinderella that went wrong. No one in the audience knew that Pat was part of the show and when Cinderella got all her dialogen wrong Pat jump up yelling no no no. The aufience gasped until they caught on. Great laughs for us that knew.
He was a great teacher admired by both staff and his students.
My memories of Pat from the early JPII days are quite fond. He gave me a great gift in school by inviting me to participate in the two productions we ran while I was there. Two of the highlights of my high school memories. I still have his thank you letter.
He had a lot of passion. Rest well Pat.
Pat
This note will not mean much to anybody but you but now that your are at peace I thought you might have some time to reflect upon it fondly. Though our paths grew far apart as the years passed I remember some good times. Families sharing holidays and kids unwrapping presents. Our yearly boxing day “You Need It ” trip to the high end Detroit audio stores with Les and Neil. Comparing music and exchanging recorded cassettes. Lazy summer days at the lake with Trapper Jack at “Tooth Acres “. The Shawenegog Monster. Weekend golf around london and comparing scorecards. (Your 78..my 98). Mimicking characters like Nick Danger “Third Eye” , Rocky Roccoc and scheming for a late night Western student radio show ..AKA Firesigh Theater style. From those early days you were destined for the theater. May your soul be lifted high and may you continue to entertain the heavens on that big stage in the sky. RIP.
Pat and I formed an instant and strong friendship almost five years ago…I affectionately referred to him as my brother from another mother. We shared many common interests. To me Pat was a Renaissance Man. I marvelled at his wide range of interests, knowledge and accomplishments. He was an inspiration.
My love to Shannon, Karla, Laura, Maria, Frank and families.
Maria, Rob, Emma, Sarah, Frank, Karla, Laura and Spadini family,
Our heartfelt condolences to the entire Spadini family.
Maria, Brad and I are so grateful we had time to visit with Pat last summer at our cottages. It was always fun to catch up with your older brother to hear about his life, what he was up to and he seemed to be living his best life with golf, Florida and other events he was doing. His easygoing nature and quick wit brought light to so many conversations. We are so so sorry for your loss as I hope in time, the many special memories you shared will bring you comfort and help ease the sadness. Holding you and your family ours my heart. Xoxo Keiren & Brad
Met Pat several years ago in Florida and instantly knew he was a very special friend. Enjoyed gatherings together through golf and dinners out. We will miss the funny stories that he regaled us with. Always a fun and amazing time with this special man. Sending our deepest heartfelt condolences to the Spadini family for your loss. Rest in peace Pat.
Our Deepest Sympathy to Shannon, Karla and Laura and their families.
So many happy, fun-filled memories with our family and Pat’s, going back
so many years.
Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord.
May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed
through the Mercy of God rest in Peace. Amen
With Love and Prayers
Marianne Proulx and Family
Blessings to the family and know he was a great teacher at JPII
Pat could really tell a joke…when he and Gowdy were on a roll you would beg for them to stop as you gasped for breath. He left the world a better place and touched the lives of hundreds of students in uncountable ways. Sad to learn of his passing, Our deepest condolences to Shannon and the entire family.
He was one of my teachers at JP 2 when I attended in the late 90s, such a great guy and teacher. Rest in peace Mr. Spadini!
Pat and I go way back to fall 1971. He was “Pat Spadini, the ball carrier” playing for Assumption Purple Raiders in our Windsor high school football championship game. I was on the Herman Green Griffins team and we endured a severe beat down under the lights that night as Pat racked up significant yards and a few TDs.
Fast forward to 2018 when we met again at The Oaks. He and I quickly bonded over that football game and those times, expanding into our love for golf and the Arts.
Pat was a gentle soul with a measured temperament.
It was truly a pleasure to have spent time with him.
Pat/Spud was a person that was fun to be around, he always engaged everyone and enjoyed laughing and making you laugh! Whether it was the time spent on the golf course, on the ball diamond or over a beer, Spud truely enjoyed life! I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Shannon, Karla, Laura and his grand children on behalf of my wife Doris and myself.
While at CCH during the years of Les Miserables and Jesus Christ Superstar, Mr. Spadini brought out the best in so many students and leveraged the community to craft shows unlike any other. I got to personally witness him spot talent, cultivate it, and let it grow with many students. An unforgettable teacher while having fun, meaning business, and keeping it real. Miss you, man.
Shanon, Karla and Laura,
We are so sorry for your loss. We had many laughs with Pat in Florida. He kept us in stitches as he recounted life in Windsor growing up with his Italian family. We had that in common with him. His storytelling was amazing. We enjoyed his generosity at dinner at his house at Bobcat as well. Whenever Pat was around you know that it would be a fun time. We hope that all the memories are a comfort to you at this time.
Don and Carla Rozell
Shannon and family: I was so sorry to hear of Pat’s passing. Great memories of our time together at Assumption. On the football field he was a force to be reckoned with, I remember him bowling people over on his fullback pops.
Although I have lost contact with you guys over the years, I will always remember his kindness and sincerity with everyone.
Sincerely, Gerry Pocock
Shannon, Karla, Laura, you have my deepest sympathies in Pat’s passing. I’m sure he’s resting in peace now.
Greg Ducharme
We were so sorry to hear of Pat ‘s passing and we will remember him with great love and fondness. While we cannot be there with you physically we are with you in our hearts. We know that wherever Pat is now he is on the big stage, directing with joy and reminding everyone to shine. We send our love to Pat ‘s children, his grandchildren, Shannon, his siblings and their families.
With love,
Wilma Quaglia and Christine Quaglia
We were deeply saddened to hear of Pat ‘s passing and although we can’t be with all of you physically, we are with you in our hearts as we remember him with great love and fondness. We know he is on the big stage now entertaining, bringing joy and making sure everyone continues to shine. We send love to his children, grandchildren, Shannon, his siblings and their families
With love,
Wilma Quaglia and Christine Quaglia