James William “Bill” Speegle worked hard, and he played even harder. That’s how family and friends remembered the founder of Hampton Roads Crane & Rigging Co. in Newport News.
James Speegle, who grew up in Hampton and lived in York County, died July 15 at 89 years old. True to his unparalleled work ethic, he kept coming to work until a recent brief illness.
“He lived life to the fullest,” said son Jim Speegle, president of Hampton Roads Crane & Rigging.
After a full career with the Lockwood Brothers in Hampton, Bill Speegle started his own company in 1981. His company moved the Watermen’s Museum building across the York River from Gloucester to Yorktown and hoisted the 34-ton propeller from the SS United States in place at the gateway to the Mariners’ Museum. The company also lifted a full-size replica of the USS Monitor’s revolving gun turret for display outside the USS Monitor Center.
Bill Speegle, left, and son Jim Speegle. Bill Speegle, founder of Hampton Roads Crane & Rigging died recently. His son Jim is president of the company. (HANDOUT)
Tara Bozick Contact Reporter [email protected]
