James “Jim” Spangler
James David Spangler went home to Heaven on October 10, 2017 at his residence in St. Peters, Missouri.
James was born on March 6, 1948 to Jack and Lorrraine (Paxton) Spangler. He grew up in St. Louis, graduated high school and then attended the University of Rolla in Rolla, Missouri, where he graduated with a Bachelors degree in engineering. After college he married Mary Gustafson and then in 1971 was drafted into the U.S. Army and served actively in Germany during the time of the Vietnam Conflict. Following his discharge from the Army, he began working as a civil servant for the Department of the Army at the Personnel Records Center on Page Ave. in Overland, Missouri until he finally retired in 2011.
Jim was a avid bowler who actually made the Guinness Book of World Records for the number of hours bowled straight through for the benefit of a charity. He enjoyed sports of all kinds, especially golfing, baseball, football and others. He was very active with bowling and golfing until his illness kept him from enjoying it. He also loved going out to the casino with his family and friends. But most of all he loved spending time with his grandkids.
Jim never knew a stranger. He was so friendly and helpful that he had the opportunity to light up many different people’s lives in many ways during his time here with us. We miss him dearly, but we know he is happy right now in heaven bowling his 300 point games.
James is survived by: his son, David (Kelly) Spangler of West Hills, CA; his daughter, Karen Spangler of O’Fallon, MO; stepdaughters, Jessica Clarkson of Washington, MO and Katrina Erisman of Bland, MO; grandchildren, Morgan, Adrian, Wyatt and Launa; his siblings, Janet (Olav) Nordemann of Montana and Dan (Kim) Spangler of Mississippi; sister-in-law, Carrie Breece; nieces, nephews and countless friends. Jim was preceded in death by his spouse Connie Clement.
Services: Memorial at St. Louis Cremation-St. Peters (320 Jungerman Rd., St. Peters MO 63376) on Friday, October 20th, 2017 beginning at 11am (visitation) with service and military honors at 1pm. There will be a 2nd service on Saturday, October 21st, 11am, with service at 1pm at Sassmanns Chapel, 107 Ray St., Bland MO 65014. Burial of his cremated remains will be in Bland, MO.
My sympathy at all Jim and family went through and blessing he has gone to that tomorrow of no pain or struggle or tears. May the rich memories be a comfort to you.
So sorry to read of Jim’s passing. I wish to extend my sincere condolences to the family. May your family find peace and comfort in the months to come.
So many fond memories of Jim – he was always welcoming, always had a kind word and ALWAYS had a story, keeping everyone in stitches. The family favorites were the ones about his Mom, Lorraine, told in good fun. He leaves behind a great legacy, one of laughter. My sympathies to all, I know he will be missed.
Cousin Jennie
Well cousin we have not met, but God has a higher calling for you for now….. I ask for grace and strength during this time for this family and friends. Grant peace and understanding for the passing of James. May the family’s hearts begin to heal. Jesus I ask Amen.
Jim was a special guy with a wonderful heart. I was sad to hear he has passed. Let light perpetual shine upon him.
My deepest sympathies to the whole family. Jim is my cousin, whom I hadn’t seen in quite some time, but fond memories of the family and Family Christmas’ have never been forgot.
Danny, my heart goes out to you.
With all my Love
Cousin Lynn