James A. Sperry

MAPLETON, Iowa -- James A. Sperry, 79, of Afton, Iowa, formerly of Mapleton, died Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2011, at a Sioux City hospital after a brief illness. Private graveside services will be held in Mapleton Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel in Sioux City. Condolences may be posted online at www.meyerbroschapels.com. Jim was born June 8, 1932, in Sioux City, the son of Forest and Alice (Caldon) Sperry. He grew up on a farm near Mapleton and attended Maple Valley High School. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Jim owned and operated Sperry Construction of Corning, Iowa, until his retirement. He enjoyed antique tractors. Jim was a member of the Southwest Antique Tractor Club. Survivors include his daughter, Colleen Sperry of Polson, Mont.; his sister, Betty Vaughan of Sioux City; his brother, Robert (Theresa) Sperry of Schuyler, Neb.; his special friend, Renee Reed of Corning; and nieces and nephews, Carolyn Waring, Karee Blumhardt, Kathy Hamers, Carma Brouillette, James Koithan, John Sperry and Joan Mejstrick. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers-in-law, Gerhard Koithan and Thomas F. Vaughan.