d e r e b m e m e Always R JANET R. SPRENGER SPRUTE
passed away April 5, 2020. Janet was born August 22, 1941, in Moscow, to rural Genesee farmers Frank and Helen Sprenger. She grew up on the farm as her dad’s little “tag along,” accompanying him whenever possible to the barn, the lumber yard, or a cattle sale. She was introduced to farm chores early, learning to drive the tractor at age 8. Being the oldest had its advantages, but there was also time to learn household chores. There were always dishes to wash and baking to do. She made her first cake from scratch at age 8 and that began a lifetime love of baking. At age 9, she joined 4-H and each year learned new skills. 4-H and county fairs became a big part of her life. One of her proudest moments was winning a trip as a contestant to the Pillsbury Grand National Bake-Off, only the third person from Idaho to do so. It was a wonderful experience for a 17-year-old Idaho farm girl. 4-H provided many learning opportunities, including two trips to national 4-H events.
She graduated from Genesee High School and the University of Idaho, earning a bachelor’s and a master’s in home economics. Her first job was as an extension home economist. She later worked for H&R Block, the IRS, and eventually had her own tax preparation business for 30 years. She married Tom Sprute on Sept. 12, 1964. They made their home in Lewiston, where Tom worked for Potlatch Corp. Janet is survived by her husband, Tom, and little dog, Abby. Janet and Tom have continued their love of Fairs with a significant contribution to fund the fair office in 2012 and a legacy gift to build a maintenance shop. There are no words that can describe her undying devotion shown to the Nez Perce County Fair. Board meetings haven’t been the same without her smiling face. She is greatly missed.
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Nez Perce County Fair - Exhibitor’s Handbook
2021
