Mary Elizabeth "Beth" Sperger, 87, of Eau Claire, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 23, 2016, at her residence, under the care of St. Joseph's Hospice, with her personal care assistant, Nila, and her family by her side. Beth was born on May 3, 1929, in Ellsworth, WI, a daughter to James and Mary (Carpenter) O'Connell. Beth and Al were married December 28, 1950 and began their married life in Puerto Rico where Al was stationed with the U.S. Air Force. She worked as a personal secretary to the personnel director of the Ramey Air Force Base. Living in Eau Claire, Racine, and Tomah during Al's career with the Wisconsin State Patrol. After they returned to Eau Claire, Beth worked as a bookkeeper for Charlson's Manufacturing Company, retiring in 1990. She and Al traveled extensively, visiting all 50 states and spending 23 winters in Arizona. Beth was a lifelong learner, graduating as a valedictorian of her class and had a passionate love of reading her entire life. Beth was known for her decorating flair, her tasteful style, and her knack for finding flea market bargains. She and Al were lifelong members of St. James the Greater Catholic Parish. Beth was a loving wife, mother, and friend who will be deeply missed. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Al; son, Dan; daughter Kathleen (Bob) Welsch; two grandsons, Alex and Zach Radosevich; brother, Jim O'Connell; many nephews, nieces, extended family and friends. Beth is preceded in death by her parents; and her sister, Barbara Hartung. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, July 29, 2016 at St. James the Greater Catholic Church, 2502 11th St., Eau Claire, with Father John Schultz officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the Mass at the church. Inurnment will take place on Saturday at 11 a.m. in Sacred Heart Cemetery (also known as Farm Hill Cemetery), Elmwood, WI. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Catholic Charities USA, P.O. Box 17066, Baltimore, MD 21297-1066.

Service Information

Cemetery

Farm Hill Cemetery County Rd PP Elmwood WI

Visitation

Friday, July 29 2016 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

St. James the Greater Catholic Church 2502 11th Street Eau Claire WI 54703

Memorial Service

Friday, July 29 2016 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

St. James the Greater Catholic Church 2502 11th Street Eau Claire WI 54703