Ralph Sprute, 97, passed away May 3, 2024. He lived in Cottonwood, Idaho, all his life. He was born to Andy Sprute, who was from Kansas, and Angelica (Gassner) Sprute, who came from Switzerland in 1927. He had three brothers: Paul, Richard and Bob, and three sisters: Marty, Elaine and Winifred.

He attended St. Gertrude’s all 12 years. He worked on the family farm for 22 years. He worked for the nuns for 10 years. He worked in the sawmill for 15 years. He was in the Army from 1945 to 1946.

In 1965, he married Marie Doyle from Ireland. They lived in Cottonwood all their lives. He stayed active in millwork. Later, they purchased the Farmer’s Store which they operated for 21 years. Ralph and Marie had two boys, Brendan and Collin.

They were active in dancing, skiing, bowling, playing cards and with friends. He enjoyed growing fruits in his garden in his later years. Ralph was a part of the Lions Club and the Credit Union and worked at the Catholic Church. They enjoyed short trips with the boys and went to Ireland several times.

He liked to tell people he had never had a headache!

He said he never had much, but enjoyed life thanks to his good health and friends.

He thanked God for all his blessings. Most of all, he said he was grateful for his wife who led him to God.

A rosary will be recited on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 10:30 am at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Cottonwood. A memorial mass will begin at 11:00 am. Arrangements are under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home, Grangeville. Send condolences to the family to blackmerfuneralhome.com.