Donald Lee Ries of St. Louis passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Sunday, May 10, 2026.
Don’s journey began in South St. Louis as the fifth of ten beloved siblings. After attending St. Mary’s High School, his academic excellence earned him the opportunity to attend University of Pennsylvania. There, his athletic talents in soccer flourished, leading to recruitment by the North American Soccer League to play professionally for the Miami Toros — a chapter of his life he carried with great pride.
During his collegiate career, Don earned MVP honors at the University of Pennsylvania, was named All-Ivy League for three consecutive years, served as co-captain, earned All-American honors from the NSCAA, and won 10 league titles. He never lost his love for the game and later coached his daughters’ soccer and basketball teams. Don was inducted into the St. Louis Soccer Hall of Fame and named to the University of Pennsylvania All-Century Soccer Team.
Beginning his professional career as a stockbroker, Don went on to become a successful bond trader and served as President of the St. Louis Municipal Bond Club. He was also passionate about his involvement with the St. Louis chapter of the Nu Voice community, where he proudly served as president and developed many treasured friendships.
Don was as generous as he was brilliant, always quick-witted with a well-timed joke. He loved playing racquetball and was a voracious reader. His quiet strength and calm demeanor put everyone at ease, and he left every person he met a little better for knowing him.
Above all, Don was a loving and compassionate father and grandfather, offering thoughtful advice and words of encouragement. His steady presence during difficult times and joy at his childrens’ accomplishments stayed with them throughout their lives.
Don is survived by his daughters, Lauren Vines (Brian Harris) and Aimee (David) Corwin; his grandchildren Benjamin, Henry, and Hadley; his beloved longtime partner, Gaetana Spinnicchia; her children, Niki (Tommy) Cusumano, Ryan Krost, and Christopher Krost and grandchildren Emma, Tommy, Luca, and Vincent. He is also survived by his siblings Julia (the late Mike) Gregorius, Patty (the late Don) Dreste, Nancy (the late Jim) Babin, Carol (Mark) Lee, Joe (Vicky) Ries, and David Culis, along with many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John Ries and Alice (the late Bill) Culis; his siblings Tommy Ries (survived by Sue), Mary (the late Marty) Williams, and Mark Ries (survived by Vicki).
Don will be smiling down on all of us while listening to The Moody Blues, enjoying a scoop of Velvet Freeze ice cream, and reuniting with those who went before him.
Services: Visitation to be held on Tuesday, June 16th, from 4:00 to 8:00pm at Kutis Affton. Funeral service will be Wednesday, June 17th, at 10:00am at Kutis Affton Chapel.
Donations in his honor can be made to American Cancer Society.