James Joseph Spranger

James Joseph Spranger obituary, Wausau, WI

James Joseph Spranger

James Spranger Obituary

Visit the Helke Funeral Home and Cremation Service website to view the full obituary.

James (Jim) Spranger, 72, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024, at Rennes Health & Rehab Center in Weston, WI. 

Born on December 8, 1952, in Wausau, Wisconsin, Jim was the son of the late John and Lenora (Casetta) Spranger. He married Susann Krolikowski on October 30, 1976, at Holy Name of Jesus Parish, and together they built a life rooted in family, hard work, and shared adventures.

Jim earned his associate degree from NorthCentral Technical College and spent his career as an auto body technician at Wittenberg Ford, Wausau Dodge, Rosemurgy Motors, and Toyota of Wausau. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and strong work ethic, Jim took pride in restoring cars to their former glory. 

Outside of work, Jim was a man of many passions and hobbies. He was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in snowmobiling, fishing, hunting, trap shooting, and caring for his beehives. Every spring, he tapped maple trees to make syrup. He and Sue also loved to travel, with Alaska holding a special place in their memories after two unforgettable trips. 

Jim is survived by his wife, Sue, and their three children: Angela Spranger (Ian Rasmussen) of Wausau, Theresa Spranger (Curt Mroczenski) of Weston, and Robert (Hannah) Spranger of Weston. He was a proud grandfather to Sophia Bootz, Ehren Spranger-Rux, Lorelei Spranger-Mroczenski, Parker and Ellis Spranger, Olivia and Aiden Rasmussen, and Kiera Mroczenski. 

Jim is also survived by his Godchildren: Curt Pliskie, Rebecca Backes, and John Krolikowski, Jr., as well as his siblings: Judy (Doug) Pliskie of Mosinee, Dennis (Barbara) Spranger of Tonto Basin, AZ, and his twin brother John (Sandra) Spranger, Jr. of Eland. 

The family extends their gratitude to Marshfield Clinic Health System, TLC Home Care, Compassus, and Rennes Group for their care and support. 

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Saint Agnes Parish, 6101 Zinzer Street, Weston. Father Jerome Patric will officiate. Visitation will be held at the church on Friday from 9:00 am until the time of service. A private family burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. 

You may sign the family guest book at helke.com

Jim will be remembered for his steady presence, love of the outdoors, and stealing cookies off the cooling rack.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Helke Funeral Home and Cremation Service

302 Spruce St, Wausau, WI 54401

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