Julie A. Spaeth

Julie A. Spaeth, 52, of Sabin, MN, passed away peacefully at her home on July 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and the compassionate care of HIA Hospice.

Julie Ann LaVoy was born on July 15, 1973, in Mahnomen, MN, to John and Ann (Goodwin) LaVoy. She grew up in Naytahwaush, where she attended grade school and was an active member of St. Ann's Catholic Church. Julie shared her love of music by playing guitar during Masses, a gift that blessed her church community. She graduated from Mahnomen High School in 1991 and continued her education at Concordia College in Moorhead, earning a degree in Business Communications in 1995.

Julie began her career at Norwest Bank in Moorhead. In 1998, she married her high school sweetheart, George Spaeth, and together they built a business. The couple founded Spaeth Cleaning, working side by side for the first four years cleaning homes before expanding into commercial cleaning. Julie managed the bookkeeping and played an integral role in the growth and success of the business.

In 2002, with the arrival of their first son, Julie embraced her calling as a full-time mother. She stepped away from the day-to-day cleaning work to devote herself to raising their growing family. Over the years, Julie and George welcomed 11 children into their home: Payton, Maddie, Brenner, Maria, George Jr., Jackson, Trever, Annie, Casey, Amorie, and Drew. They also experienced the profound heartbreak of losing their son, Charlie, at 39 weeks.

Julie was her children's first teacher, homeschooling each of them until they independently chose to attend traditional school. She taught far more than academics. While encouraging independent learning in subjects like math and English, she brought the family together for science and history, fostering curiosity and a love of learning. When her children entered the classroom, they consistently performed at or above grade level. Beyond academics, Julie nurtured each child's unique talents and interests, enthusiastically supporting their involvement in hockey, basketball, gymnastics, volleyball, track, art, science fairs, and building projects that inspired creativity and, for some, a passion for engineering.

Julie had an extraordinary gift for creating a warm and welcoming home. Whether serving her children's favorite lunches—like her famous quesadillas, affectionately nicknamed "frog legs"—preparing hearty family dinners, or organizing vacations with every detail carefully planned, she made caring for a large family look effortless. From packing suitcases to booking lodging, she ensured every trip was filled with lasting memories and that everyone had exactly what they needed.

She was also her children's biggest fan. Her unmistakable voice could always be heard from the stands as she enthusiastically cheered them on at countless games, meets, and events. She celebrated every accomplishment with genuine excitement and believed every child deserved loud, unwavering encouragement.

Above all, Julie's life reflected her deep faith in Jesus Christ and her unwavering love for her family. She was a devoted wife, an extraordinary mother, a loving daughter and sister, and a loyal friend. Known for her quick wit, joyful sense of humor, compassionate heart, and remarkable ability to make everyone feel loved, Julie left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She instilled in her children a strong work ethic, the importance of serving others, and, most importantly, a steadfast faith in God.

Julie is survived by her loving husband, George of Sabin, MN; her children, Payton (Jaida) of Fargo, ND, Maddie (Kayla Quintanilla) of Fargo, ND, Brenner of Fargo, ND, Maria, George Jr., Jackson, Trever, Annie, Casey, Amorie, and Drew, all of Sabin, MN; her parents, John and Ann LaVoy of Naytahwaush, MN; her siblings, Janet (Tim) Hanson of Moorhead, MN, Jeff LaVoy of Naytahwaush, MN, and Joan LaVoy of Mahnomen, MN; as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her infant son, Charlie Evan; her parents-in-law, George and Sharon Spaeth; and her grandparents, George and Florence (Doll) Goodwin, and Sidney and Gerda LaVoy.

Julie will be remembered for the love she poured into her family, the faith that guided her life, and the countless lives she touched through her kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished and the values she instilled in each of them. 

The Visitation will be on Sunday, July 12 from 5 - 7 with a Prayer Service at 7 at Triumph Lutheran Brethren Church - East Campus, Moorhead.

The Funeral will be on Monday, July 13 at 11 AM at Triumph.

Burial will take place at Moorhead Memorial Gardens, Moorhead.