James Sperle

Graveside service for James “Jim” Sperle, 78, of Richardton will be 2:00 pm Thursday, December 21, 2023 at St. Mary Cemetery in Richardton with Father Thomas Wordekemper, OSB officiating.

Jim passed away on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at his home in Richardton.

James Michael Sperle was born on September 23, 1945 in Richardton to Michael and Freda (Harmel) Sperle. He grew up and attended school in Richardton. He graduated from Hettinger High School in 1963. Jim moved with his family to various places in Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Jim attended college in Wahpeton before moving to Seattle to work for Boeing. Jim later moved to Denver to care for his father. Jim then moved to Arizona, where he worked as a groom for race horses. He also opened up a cleaning service.

At all of his stops, Jim spent time at the nearest horse racing track, where he developed a passion for working with horses. He continued this work for the rest of his life.  Jim and his sister, Aletha, were both honored with racehorses named after them.

Jim was a true adventurer, seeking fame and fortune at many stops along the way, from California to India. He lived life to the fullest and enjoyed hanging out and visiting with friends.

He was a loyal friend who will be missed by many.

.Jim is survived by his brother, Scott Anderson of Rock Springs, WY; cousins, Kelly (Kim) Dressler, Kent (Mona) Dressler, Linda (Don) Staudinger, Debbie Dressler, and numerous other family members, friends, and horse racing buddies.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Aletha; and his cousin, Russell Dressler.