Arthur G. (Artie) Sperl Jr., 70, of Palenville

PALENVILLE » Arthur G. Sperl Jr., 70, passed away peacefully at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla on Wednesday, March 21, 2018.

He was born April 2, 1947, to the late Arthur G. and Mildred Wood Sperl of Saugerties. He graduated from Saugerties High School in 1965 and was a star football player for his high school team. After graduation, he went on to play baseball for the Saugerties Dutchmen. For eight years, he served as an Army Reservist. He joined his father in the operation of Art Sperl & Son for over 30 years, building the business and making lifelong friendships. After selling his business, he went on to open Alex Archery, which he operated for over 20 years, and later in life he drove a school bus for Lezette Express until his retirement.

Art was an active member of his community. He had served on the Board of Consistories for the Reformed Church of Saugerties, was a Deacon of the church as well as a Sunday school teacher. Art was an avid hunter, animal lover and sportsman. He was instrumental in starting a bow hunting camp for children; he taught hunter safety courses for both adults and children; he served as a board member on the NY Bow Hunters Association; he founded Hunters for the Hungry and coordinated food donations to Soup Kitchens around Ulster County; he was a former member of the High Woods Sportsman’s Club and the Saugerties Fish and Game Club. He spent 20 years as a bagpiper for the Amerscot Highland Pipe Band. He played and managed the softball team, Sperl’s Pakkers, where for many years he played ball alongside his father and his son. Art made many friends in his travels and was quickwitted and quick to help others. He will be deeply missed by all those who love him.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Hutty Sperl; four children, Jamie Smith (Jim) of Port Ewen, Kimberly Lockrow (Scott) of Kingston, William Bagshaw (Kate) of Saugerties, and Kerrie Bark (Richard) of Saugerties; siblings Donna Mehalak, Annie Joyce (Steven), Susan Thein (Robert); 11 grandchildren; and one greatgrandson. Several nieces and nephews also survive. He was predeceased by his son, Randy Sperl.

His funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home Inc., corner of John and Lafayette streets, Saugerties. Friends will be received Monday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.

The family suggests that donations in his name be made to the Saugerties Animal Shelter, Town Hall, High Street, Saugerties, N.Y. 12477.

Expressions of condolence may be shared with the family at SeamonWilseyFuneralHome.com.