Ishpeming, MI - Albert G. Spalding, age 69, of 803 E. Empire St. Ishpeming, passed away on Tuesday, February 22, 2022, at UP Health System in Marquette (the last place he would have chosen to pass at, go figure) going out with the storm that brought us 37 inches of record-breaking snow fall.

Al was born in Montevideo, MN on August 1, 1952, a son of the late Delores (Lingerfelt) and Albert H. Spalding. His childhood nickname was Sandy due to his blond hair at the time. He was a graduate of the West Fargo High School, Class of 1970. He went on to North Dakota State University, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He nearly completed his master's degree in Wildlife Biology from Northern Michigan University (completing a study of the migration of Deer and predatory Wolves at Beaver Basin, where he conducted necropsies on the findings). In true Al Spalding fashion politics got involved and no thesis was accepted and that was that.

Al started his career as a traveling Teacher in Australia where he taught Math & Science. Upon his return to the states, he taught at Bothwell Middle School where he was fondly nicknamed Griz. He proceeded to enter the medical field where he worked as a Respiratory Therapist at Marquette General Hospital for 27 years, retiring in 2008. He went on to run the Respiratory Department at Aspirus Health system (he was a huge proponent of disaster preparedness and made great strides with this facility) and finally really retired in 2015. We must not forget his other interesting occupations over the years as a traveling RT, security at a meat plant, bodyguard at a night club, cook at Spalding's Café, antique Wheeler & Dealer and Story Time Steve. His stories were often unique and farfetched but always enthralling and entertaining and usually took place while by the fire at camp in the wee hours of the morning.

Al cared deeply for his family and his soul mate Laura, meeting her in Fargo  in 1974 where they started their journey together. He was selfless and always put others before himself. He was an incredibly intelligent man and was always worried about the difficult times ahead. Fortunately, he will not have to see them. He loved the outdoors and camp and was always up for a trip to Florida to feed the droves of seagulls on the full very packed beach. We have all stood on the deck at camp with him and listened to him howl at the Coyotes while looking up at the Big Dipper with Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon playing in the background. He was a true collector and loved antiquing and "rummaging." There was not a pawn shop, estate sale or "Vinnies" he wouldn't stop into looking for Silver Coins or military items or anything that was for sale. We will miss him doing yard work in his cut of jean shorts dubbed "daisy dukes" all while catching a tan in 40-degree weather. If ever there was a family event at his home, the entire family would all rally together and pull "all nighters" making it happen. He believed whole heartedly in the Lord and was welcomed to the gates of heaven with open arms. Be still and know that I am God from Psalms 46:10.

Survivors include his wife of 44 years Laura R. (O'Toole) Spalding of Ishpeming, whom he married on May 6, 1977 at St. Anne's Catholic Church in Escanaba; three daughters, Tanya Spalding of St. Petersburg, FL; Meagan Hanson of Negaunee; Hannah Spalding of Negaunee; son, Albert D.E. (Anita) Spalding of Ishpeming; two grandsons, Cullen and Declan Hanson; two sisters, Karleen Spalding of Little Falls, MN; Linda (Douglas) Duffy of Winter Garden, FL; brother, David (Linda) Spalding of Kansas City, MO; along with many more nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Al's life will be held at Camp Floating Bear this summer for his closest family and friends.

Al's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.