I was originally told that the rotar would come off once the brakes were removed. The spindle nut appears to be holding it on, but I can't get the spindle nut off. Do I need to beat on it or use lots of torque on the nut?

What is the model year of your vehicle? Is it a Corolla?

Apparently from his profile, he has a 1994 Corolla.

Many times the rotor will be frozen on the car by rust. Usually there are threaded holes in the rotor through which you may thread long bolts. Once they are inserted enough, tightening these bolts evenly and slowly will force the rotor off the hub.

Other times, giving the rotor a whack in various places on the inboard side with a plastic mallet will dislodge it also.

Pulled rotors from a '97 in about '03, and had to use the bolts as stated above. Worked fine.

a few well place hits with a metal hammer usually will do the trick. Don't hit the studs.