Jerrol Lynn Springer, age 83, of Westmoreland, passed away Thursday, May 11, 2023, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan, KS.
He was born on June 25, 1939, in Manhattan, the son of Carrol and Lillian Bell (Anderson) Springer. Raised in the Blue Valley River vicinity near Garrison on a farm in the Carnahan Creek area, he was the 5th child of seven—one brother and 5 sisters. He spent countless hours outside exploring, collecting arrowheads, fishing, and hunting, which led to such a deep outdoor connection that he often said, “Nature is my church.”
He graduated from Randolph High School in 1958 and continued higher education at Pittsburg State University on football and track scholarships. He completed his Bachelor's and Master’s of Science degrees in Education from Kansas State University in 1963.
Jerry married Sharon Kay Toburen on June 2, 1962, at Swede Creek United Methodist Church. Together, they had 3 children, Kim, Pam and Doug. Family time was mostly spent at Carnahan Creek, fishing, swimming, and camping—a tradition that he continued with his grandchildren. He also loved watching and attending KSU football and basketball games.
Jerry began his coaching and teaching career in 1963 in the U.S.D. 323 Westmoreland School District, retiring in 1995 after 32 years. He taught biology, but his true passion was teaching physical education and coaching/mentoring his students. He coached many sports including football, basketball, track, and softball, taking great pride in receiving League, Regional and State Championships. Strong bonds were formed during these times, as words from his students and athletes attest: “He always coached with his heart, saying, ‘The sun always comes up tomorrow’ after a loss.” “Always had a heck of a smile for everyone.” “He touched a lot of lives through coaching, but he was much more than that—a mentor!” “Genuine and caring to all he knew, he made everyone around him feel special.” “He built confidence in us when it was lacking.” ”He always challenged us to do more/be more... On the court, in the classroom, and in life!”
In retirement, Jerry created many woodworking projects, which he shared with family and friends. He also gardened, sharing his delicious homegrown tomatoes and other produce with family and neighbors. He loved competing in the Masters and Senior Games track programs, which allowed him to travel and compete in many states, including at the national level. His favorite events were the discus and hammer throw, in which he excelled and won many competitions.
He is survived by his wife Sharon Springer of Westmoreland; two daughters, Kim Clopton and husband Robby of Liberty Hill, Texas, and Pam Lauer and husband Joe of Olsburg; one son, Doug Springer and wife Jenny of Wamego; three sisters, Vona Leckey of De Smet, South Dakota, Carolyn Kershaw and husband Charles of Young, Arizona, and Pati Casey and husband Scott of Westmoreland; six grandchildren, Makynna Hood, Garrison Clopton, Jarrid Lauer (Jana), Laurel Wahl (Chris), Jake Springer, and Sara Springer; and one great grandson, Reddick Lauer.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Gyle “Bud” Springer, and two sisters, Jean Walla and Ky Reece.
The family will receive friends from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m. on May 25, 2023, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on May 26, 2023, at the Carnahan Church, south of Olsburg. Inurnment will be in the Carnahan Creek Cemetery. Per his wishes, an outdoor picnic at the Carnahan Church will conclude the celebration. Please wear casual lake attire (yep, like shorts, jeans...).
A memorial has been established for the Jerry Springer Memorial Fund to be distributed to the Carnahan Church and Cemetery and other yet to be determined recipients. Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.