Richard Douglas Sperle

Sperle, Richard D. McFarland-Richard D. Sperle began life's journey on July 23, 1925. The son of Oscar and Gaea (Rein) Sperle, he was proud to live his entire life on the farm that has been in the Sperle family for over 150 years. He was a loyal son, devoted husband, and loving father and grandfather. Richard passed away peacefully on February 14, 2009. To the very end, he lived his life with strength and dignity inspiring all those who knew him. He was a life-long member of McFarland Lutheran Church where he served on the church counsel. Richard was a member of the McFarland School Board where he was instrumental in establishing the high school within the McFarland School District and he cherished his thirty years of service on the McFarland Cemetery Association Board. Richard was married to Barbara Jean Olson, his high school sweetheart and life-long partner in love, for 63 years. In addition to Barbara, he is survived by two daughters , Diana Jean Sperle and Mary Louise (John) Teppo, his grandson Nathan Richard (Rebecca) Kirch, three great granddaughters, Adrienne, Brynn, and Hannah, a sister-in-law , Martha Jean Sperle, and five nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Fred, and sister and brother-in-law, Marion and Burns Halverson. He enjoyed many friends including Elizabeth McConnell and the Linden ""Boys"" who were like his adopted sons. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to his dedicated team of physicians and nursing staff at Meriter Hospital. They are also deeply appreciative for the kindness and care provided by the McFarland/UW Health Clinic over the years, and send their special thanks to HospiceCare for gently helping Richard reach his final destination. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2009 at 11:00 am at McFarland Lutheran Church, 5529 Marsh Rd. The family will greet friends at church on Saturday from 9:30 am until the time of service. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials be made in his name to the McFarland Lutheran Church. Remember me each day right from the start. I will be forever near for I live within your heart. Olson-Holzhuter-Cress 5801 Hwy 51 McFarland 608-838-0655 www.CressFuneralService.com