James Spicer

James Louis Spicer, 72, of Sheboygan, passed away Monday, January 11, 2016, at home. Jim was born February 20, 1943 in Washburn, IL, to the late Louis and Elsie (Crank) Spicer. He graduated from the University of Illinois School of Veterinary Medicine with a doctorate. He was a proud brother of the Farmhouse Fraternity. On January 29, 1967, he was united in marriage to Cheryl Banta in Peoria, IL. She preceded him in death on June 2, 2015 Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, being stationed at Fort Campbell, KY. In 1972, after his service, Jim moved his family to Sheboygan where he became a partner in the Animal Clinic. Jim worked for over 40 years, serving many clients, making himself available at all hours of the day and night. He was a large animal vet, but his true passion was working with horses. In his later years, Jim enjoyed spending time at the Animal Clinic, playing solitaire and joking around with the staff. In 2014, Jim was awarded the Friend of 4-H Award after many years of caring and compassion for the horses needing his attention at the Sheboygan County Fair.
Jim and Cheryl founded Stonekroft Kennels and were very successful showing dogs across the country. Jim traveled all around the country, showing his dogs, until the time of his passing. Jim was an active member of the German Shepherd Dog Club of America and the German Shepherd Dog Club of Wisconsin.
He is survived by two sons, Blaine (Kim) Spicer and Monte (Mary) Spicer; one daughter, Angela (Jon) Buesing; six grandchildren, Alexander, Dylan, Isabella, Madalyn, Maxwell and Wyatt; one brother Jay (Janice) Spicer and two sisters, Roseanne Ulrich and Sue (Alex) Nobleman. He is further survived by many family members, close friends and his beloved dogs.
In addition to his parents and wife, Cheryl, he was preceded in death by his son, Shane, his daughter-in-law, Stephanie and his brother, Jack.
A funeral service for Jim will be held on Saturday, January 16, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Luke United Methodist Church (623 Ontario Avenue, Sheboygan) with Pastor John Putnam officiating. Friends may call on Friday, January 15, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Zimmers Westview Funeral and Cremation Care Center (Hwy 42 JJ, Howards Grove). Visitation will continue on Saturday, at the church, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will follow at the Kohler Woodland Cemetery. Please visit www.zimmerfuneralhome.com to sign the guestbook.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Jims name.