John E. Spurgeon, of Deerbrook, died Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at Aspirus Langlade Hospital. He was 75 years old. He was born on September 25, 1948 in Antigo, a son of Bernie and Genevieve (Snow) Spurgeon. He married Mary Luepke on March 31, 1973 at Calvary Lutheran Church. She preceded him in death on January 20, 2012.

John was a graduate of Antigo High School, class of 1966. After employment with Coca-Cola and Miller Tire, he began his career as a welder with Polar Welding. John was a gifted welder and fabricator for over 40 years when he retired from Hydratight Sweeney in 2013.

John had many passions. He was an outdoor enthusiast enjoying hunting, fishing, and trap shooting. His love for history stemmed into the Civil War, early 20th-century gangsters, and the Old West, as well as local mystery and folklore. He almost always owned a motorcycle, sometimes more than one at a time. Having been a longtime Hunter Education instructor (more than 15 years), John frequented local and regional gun shows and was utilized as an expert on this topic by family and friends. His experience working with metal as a vocation also spilled over into collecting and refurbishing old knives. With his eye for detail, John created hand-lettered signage for local businesses and individuals. John loved animals. He enjoyed many family pets but gravitated toward dogs. Even when he didn't have any of his own at home, he welcomed and spoiled his "furry grandkids" when his children visited.

Survivors include two daughters, Laurie (Doug) Muench of Rio, and Oriana (Chas) Layman of Wausau and; son, Tyler (Janessa Keen) Spurgeon of Mount Airy, North Carolina, and their children (John's grandchildren), Azalea and Cassius Spurgeon; brother, Gerald (Beverly) Spurgeon of Antigo, sister-in-law, Ann Scott of Arizona; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, John was preceded in death by his nephew, Jim Spurgeon; father and mother-in-law, Arnold and Grace Luepke; and brother-in-law, William Scott.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 11 at 7 p.m. at Bradley Funeral Home with Rev. David Karolus officiating. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 11 from 4 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Inurnment will take place in Evergreen Cemetery in Bowler on Friday, April 12 at 10 a.m.

The family would like to thank the staff at Aspirus Langlade Hospital for their kind and compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in John Spurgeon's name may be directed to Langlade County Humane Society or Kathy's House in Milwaukee.

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