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James (Jim) Custer Spencer, Age: 86
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of James (Jim) Custer Spencer, beloved husband, father, and grandpa, who died suddenly on February 6, 2025 at the age of 86.  Born January 7, 1939 in Kansas City, Jim was a master trumpeter, playing in diverse settings such as Tony DiPardo's Chiefs Band, the American Royal, the Kansas City Lyric Opera Orchestra, Tivoli Music Hall Orchestra at Worlds of Fun and the Kansas City Symphony. He was also a passionate teacher, still teaching private lessons until his last days.
 
 
Jim was active in the Boy Scouts in his younger days, attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. He was Scout Master for several years for Troop 395. He was known to take the troop on long hikes during campouts dubbed as "Spencer Death Marches."
Jim rarely met a stranger; he was a friend to everyone he met. He would always pick up the phone when someone called, no matter what he was doing. 
 

Jim is survived by his wife Carol of 48 years, dog Nikki, daughters Sarah Spencer (Lenexa, KS) and Shelley Griffin (Manhattan, KS), sons Robert Berndt (Florissant, CO) and Will Berndt (Chicago, IL), and grandchildren Nichole Spencer, Samantha Troyer, and Logan Troyer. He was preceded in death by his son Matt Spencer and parents Herbert and Bonnie Spencer.
 
 
A funeral mass will take place at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 11300 W 103rd St, Overland Park, KS at 10:00AM on Saturday, February 15, 2025. Visitation begins at 9:00AM at the church with a luncheon following the service. Private family burial at a later date. Happy Hour Saturday, February 15, 2025 2:00-4:00PM at 14124 W 88th Terrace, Lenexa, KS. 
 
Send Condolences
Additional Service:
Visitation
Location:
Holy Spirit Catholic Church
Address:
11300 W 103rd St
City:
Overland Park
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66214
Date of Service:
Feb 15, 2025
Time of Service:
10:00AM
Additional Information:

A funeral mass will take place at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 11300 W 103rd St, Overland Park, KS at 10:00AM on Saturday, February 15, 2025. Visitation begins at 9:00AM at the church with a luncheon following the service. Private family burial at a later date. Happy Hour Saturday, February 15, 2025 2:00-4:00PM at 14124 W 88th Terrace, Lenexa, KS. 
Google Map:
Click Here to see Location on Map
Additional Service:
Funeral Mass
Location:
Holy Spirit Catholic Church
Address:
11300 W 103rd St
City:
Overland Park
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66214
Date of Service:
Feb 15, 2025
Time of Service:
09:00AM
Additional Information:

A funeral mass will take place at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 11300 W 103rd St, Overland Park, KS at 10:00AM on Saturday, February 15, 2025. Visitation begins at 9:00AM at the church with a luncheon following the service. Private family burial at a later date. Happy Hour Saturday, February 15, 2025 2:00-4:00PM at 14124 W 88th Terrace, Lenexa, KS. 
Google Map:
Click Here to see Location on Map
Additional Service:
Celebration of Life
Location:
Address:
14124 W 88th Terrace, Lenexa, KS.
City:
Lenexa
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66215
Date of Service:
Feb 15, 2025
Time of Service:
02:00PM
Additional Information:

A funeral mass will take place at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 11300 W 103rd St, Overland Park, KS at 10:00AM on Saturday, February 15, 2025. Visitation begins at 9:00AM at the church with a luncheon following the service. Private family burial at a later date. Happy Hour Saturday, February 15, 2025 2:00-4:00PM at 14124 W 88th Terrace, Lenexa, KS. 
Google Map:
No Location added

Condolences

Jim and Linda Jackson Feb 14, 2025

Friends ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Jim was such a great guy and we always enjoyed our time with him especially music and meals. May God’s love comfort you and faith sustain you in this time of sorrow. Sincerely and with love, Jim and Linda J

George Montag Feb 14, 2025

Former trumpet student ,Kansas City ,Missouri

I only knew Jim very briefly, but he left a lasting impression. I took private trumpet lessons with him for about 6 months during my middle school days (2007 or 2008) and he was one of the better instructors I ever had. Condolences for your loss and may he rest in peace.

CeCe Stabler Feb 14, 2025

Scouts ,Overland Park ,Kansas

I am sad to hear about the passing of Jim. He was a gentle soul and he was a wonderful Scoutmaster and leader. I will be keeping Carol and his family in my prayers. I

Andy Dubill Feb 14, 2025

Friend ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Was very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. I attended the first "death march hike" that Jim led near Camp Naish and the troop will never forget it. We even issued a special Spencer Death march patch for it. He helped make troop 395 what it is today. I will miss Jim and his quiet ways of leadership.Prayers for Jim and his family.

Dan Laughlin Feb 15, 2025

Boy scouts ,Seattle ,Washington

Hello - I’m sad to read of the passing of “Mr. SPENCER” as I always knew him. He was instrumental to my experience in Boy Scouts…which was an important part of my youth. He was always friendly and HELPFUL! A great man, a great life. Best Dan Laughlin

Keith Benjamin Feb 22, 2025

Friend ,Kansas City ,Missouri

I'm so sorry to hear about Jim's passing. He was simply one of the nicest guys in the world. I loved working with him, and there isn't a musician in KC who wouldn't say exactly the same thing. Rest in Peace.