James E. Spertzel

James E. Spertzel, 86, of Ottawa passed away Saturday, October 14, 2017 at Ottawa Pavilion. Funeral Services will be held at 10 am, Wednesday, October 18 at Ottawa Funeral Home with Rev. Cheri Stewart officiating. Visitation will be from 4 - 7 pm, Tuesday, October 17 at the funeral home. Burial will be in Summit View Cemetery, with military honors. Jim was born March 2, 1931 in Kankakee to Luther and Claire (Flannery) Spertzel. He married Dorothy (Kelley) Kern on March 11, 1967. Jim was a proud member of the United States Army, serving from 1952-1954, during the Korean War. He retired as an operating engineer out of Joliet Local 150. He enjoyed gardening and working in his yard and workshop in his garage. Jim was a lifetime member of the VFW 1942 in Streator and the NRA. He is survived by his wife; one son, Randy Spertzel; his sister, Wilma McDonald; three nephews, Mike, Mark, and Scott McDonald; and one niece, Sandra Stewart. He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Edward Spertzel in 1988; and his two paw friends, Charlie and Riley. Pallbearers will be Chris Lentz, Mark McDonald, Wayne Czyk, Joe Vezain, Gary Donnelly, and Russell Brent.