Petersburg Pilot -

Bentley Luke Sperl, 32 passed away January 29, 2015 in Petersburg, Alaska.

He was born January 27, 1983 in Petersburg to Dennis and Dorothy Sperl. He was the baby of six children and in spite of suffering since his first birthday because of sickness, he had a happy early childhood.

When Bentley stopped breathing at 9 years old, he had brain surgery, gall bladder surgery, and spent three months recuperating before returning to his hometown, where he was finally able to embrace life. As a young man he loved to make people laugh. He learned quickly, and could do anything he set his mind to. He always enjoyed fishing, wood cutting, good jokes, and meaningful conversation.

Bentley was a hardworking deckhand, an outstanding son and friend to his dad on the boat. He graciously helped his mom and other family members, whenever they needed him. He had patience of a saint when dealing with his nieces and nephews and took valuable time to bond with each one.

Bentley's presence will be sorely missed in Petersburg and in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He was honest, loyal and kind in all his dealings. His family remembers him as a man who held his family and friends close, and whose nieces and nephews had an extra special place in his tender heart.

Bentley is survived by his fiancé, Angela Marzo (Yanie) of Mariveles, Bataan; parents, Dennis Sperl and Dorothy Sperl Bentley, both of Petersburg; brother, Donald (Tausha) Sperl and sisters Emilie Sperl and Garnett (Mark) Coonrad all of Petersburg; sister, Summer (Dan) Baxter of Juneau; sister, Tamsann Fortier of Pittsburg, Penn .; nieces and nephews, Chevelle, Versace, Kelsa, Koren, Joshua, Alexis, Kole, Kendra, Thomas, Cailynn, Kerra, Samantha, Klaire, Micah, Klay, Archer; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and his dog, Bella.

A memorial service was held at the Sons of Norway Hall on February 5.

Donations can be made in Bentley's name to Seattle Children's Hospital, 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 or online in Bentley's memory https://giveto.seattlechildrens.org/