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Spencer Sartorius Obituary
Spencer Scott Sartorius
April 18, 1946 – Aug. 11, 2023
RANCHO, NM - Spencer Scott Sartorius, 77, of Rio Rancho, NM, passed away on August 11, 2023, after living with Parkinson's Disease for many years.
He was born to Harry and Helen Sartorius on April 18, 1946, in Plymouth, WI. Spencer grew up in Elmhurst, IL, and graduated from York High School where he excelled in football, wrestling, and track. He attended Montana State University on a track and field scholarship and fell in love with big water and open spaces. While at MSU he met and married Janice Sundet and they enjoyed 56 years together. He proudly served in the Army from 1968 to 1970.
Throughout his career, Spencer dedicated himself to public education and public service. He began as a teacher and coach at Sidney High School for seven years and then moved to Helena where he served as the Health and PE Program Leader for the State of Montana. His commitment and hard work eventually earned him the position of Assistant Superintendent of Education, where he served until the end of his long career. Many of his closest friendships were with others who shared his passion to provide the best public education possible for Montanans.
Outside of his professional life, Spencer enjoyed outdoor pursuits, including hiking, canoeing, and exploring back roads. His love for nature and adventure brought him immense joy which he shared with his children and later his grandchildren whom he loved more than life itself.
He is survived by his wife, Jan Sartorius; sister, Shirley Wagner; daughter, Sara (William) Ardren; son, Shawn (Tacey) Sartorius; and grandchildren: Megan Ardren, Molly Ardren, Sierra Sartorius, and Russell Sartorius. Spencer was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Sylvia Sartorius; and brother, Stuart Sartorius.
According to his wishes, a private burial will be held in Cedarville, IL.
Spencer will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. His legacy of dedication, love, and zest for life will forever be cherished.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Spencer Sartorius
Pat Moore
August 29, 2023
Spencer was not just a strong leader in MT but he also helped us in Wyoming when we lost the Health and Physical Education position in our State Department of Education. He sincerely care for all students and teachers. We will always be grateful for his help. He was an outstanding educator and a good friend to Wyoming.
Bob Moon
August 27, 2023
Spence made a difference in Montana education. Acknowledgement to the heroic caregiving efforts of the Sartorius family!
Lowell and Susan Bartels
August 25, 2023
Spencer was such a good man. We enjoyed our rafting trips with Jan and him and dinner at our house when they came in and asked for a pillow case because they had found a rubber snake and needed to capture it for their Son Sean. Jan was a perfect administrative secretary and Spencer such an advocate for Montana´s children. A great family to know a true blessing.
Tammy Odegard
August 24, 2023
Jan, I was so sorry to see this. I always enjoyed both of you. Spencer was always so happy.
Tammy (Nielsen Dental)
Laurie Kops
August 23, 2023
There will never be another Spencer. He was a great mentor, teacher, humanitarian, and the best storyteller. I loved hearing about his youthful, and not-so-youthful shenanigans, and knew that beyond that devil-may-care facade, was a huge heart that touched many lives and hearts. He will be greatly missed, and I send my condolences to all of you.
Stacy Fessenden
August 22, 2023
Sara, I´m so sorry to hear about your dad! Big hugs and prayers to you and your family! Stacy Niklas Fessenden
Fran McNeill
August 22, 2023
Such a precious man and Alex´s best friend!
Myrna Doney
August 22, 2023
Love to all the family. May your memories of your lives together bring comfort and peace.
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