Spence Thomas McGrath, age 40, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Clear Lake on May 27, 2025.

He is preceded by his grandparents, Myron (Rita) Schuppel and Gerald (Helen) McGrath; and his beloved, one-of-a-kind 4-legged buddy, Ziggy.

Spence is survived by his mother, Bonnie Schuppel-McGrath; father Tom (Ruth) McGrath; brother, Gannon McGrath; step brothers, Anthony (Theresa) Jensen and Patrick (Andrea) Jensen; and his current dogs, Maverick and Vaquera.

He was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on January 15, 1985. The family moved in time for him to start first grade in Clear Lake. He graduated from St. Cloud Tech High School in 2003. Spence studied Political Science and Psychology at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter.

Spence was passionate about political science his entire life, often looking to discuss and debate various topics until all hours of the night if allowed. His interest in political science can be dated as early as 1991, where Spence returned home from kindergarten astounded by the onset of the Gulf War and articulately expressed his opposition to the entire matter.

Spence had a breadth of hobbies, passions, and interests. He participated in soccer, lacrosse, and swimming throughout high school and college. He played the guitar and practiced in a garage band for fun. He also organized a concert of bands while at Gustavus to raise proceeds for charity. Spence later moved to Colorado for nine years where he worked as a ski and snowboard instructor and as an EMT, and he also earned his CDL. Spence spoke Spanish fluently and for the past five+ years he worked as a bilingual customer service rep for Quik Trip. He enjoyed art and developed his skills through numerous pencil and charcoal drawings, portraits of friends, and developing original cartoons. Spence was an avid snowboarder, and during his time out West he completed avalanche training with his former dog, Ziggy. He was passionate about canine agility, and throughout the years he trained and competed with three different dogs.

Spence found strength when he began his personal spiritual journey and enjoyed the peace that comes when one turns everything over to the Lord.

A Celebration of Spence’s life will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Tri County Alliance Church, 8464 – 160th Street NW, Clearwater, with public visitation starting at 9:00 AM.

Peterson-Grimsmo Chapel 763-295-2918 www.peterson-grimsmochapel.com.