SPOTH - Richard G. “Dick”

March 10, 2025 of Angola, NY. Beloved husband of the late Delores L. (Kasperczyk) Spoth; dear father of Richard C. (Dina) Spoth, Jeanne (Robert) Macko, James Spoth and Kimberly (Matthew) Frost; grandfather of Rachel and Eric; brother of Carole (late William) Walters and Barbara (Stan) Dunn. Survived by nieces and nephews.

Captain Richard "Dick" Spoth was a man defined by courage, service, ingenuity, and an unwavering dedication to helping others. His story began with his enlistment in the U.S. Army, where Dick served valiantly as a member of the elite Airborne Green Beret Special Forces. He rarely spoke about his experiences in Vietnam, choosing instead to quietly carry the weight of his sacrifices. Dick was awarded several honors for his bravery and commitment, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Parachute Badge.

Returning home, Dick didn't shy away from hard work. He spent time as a longshoreman before transitioning to a role as a Lineman for New York State Electrical & Gas, where his skill and dedication earned him the distinction of becoming the first lineman promoted into the engineering department. His entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to open his own business specializing in residential wiring, later expanding to pump stations and traffic signals.  This laid the foundation of which became Spoth Enterprises, Inc. which became a family business with Delores at the helm and his sons and daughter specializing in traffic signals, street lighting and power line distribution. 

Dick and Delores met at Flying Tigers and were married on July 17, 1971, shortly after they met. Together they built a loving family with their children Rick, Jeanne, James, and Kimberly and later grandchildren Rachel and Eric.  

Dick was known for his ability to spot opportunities and seize them—even if it meant explaining later. This adventurous spirit led him to purchase his first dive charter boat for Lake Erie without his wife Delores's knowledge, humorously attempting to disguise it as "lawnmower parts." Though the story didn't convince Delores, it became one of the family’s cherished anecdotes.

Passionate about helping others, Dick established his first TowBoatUS port in Western New York at Sturgeon Point Marina with eventually a second location in the Buffalo Small Boat Harbor, providing invaluable assistance to boaters in distress. His reputation for always being ready to help earned him the affectionate nickname "Batman" from one Coast Guard personnel, known for showing up whenever someone was in trouble. Dick was presented with various awards and accolades for life saving service on Lake Erie, including the prestigious Captain David P. Dobbin's award issued by the US 9th Coast Guard District. Dick's experience and training allowed him to hold his USCG Merchant Marine Master of Towing up to 100 Gross Tons upon the Great Lakes, Inland Waters and Western Rivers.

Dick also deeply valued community and service beyond his business. He and Delores became some of the first medical emergency technicians (METs), the predecessor to today's EMT's,  in the early 70s, proudly serving as members of the Lancaster Volunteer Ambulance Corp. In 1981, Dick joined the Lake Erie Beach Volunteer Fire Co, eventually serving as Assistant Chief and Chief. He strongly believed in education, eagerly attending courses around the country including advanced safety and technical rescue. Dick’s commitment to lifelong learning inspired many when he hosted those classes locally for others to attend.  

To his family, Dick was a loving husband, father and grandfather whose actions always spoke louder than words. His children witnessed firsthand his unwavering dedication and resilience. His signature humor, humility, and genuine concern for others shaped their lives profoundly.

Dick's legacy is defined by bravery, integrity, innovation, and unwavering service to his community. He leaves behind a story rich with adventure, generosity, and boundless determination—a true captain, leader, and quiet hero whose life continues to inspire all who knew him.

The family will receive friends on Sunday March 16, 2025 from 4-7 PM at the Latimore Schiavone Funeral Home, Inc. 8434 N Main St Angola, NY followed by a Mass of Christian Burial Monday March 17, 2025 10:00 AM at Most Precious Blood Church Angola, NY. Assemble at the church.