Richard Earl Sprague

91, of Whiteland, IN passed away March 31, 2023. He was born November 10, 1931 in Chicago, IL to Frances Edwina (McArthur) and Earl Edwin Sprague.

Richard graduated from Marietta Ohio High School as Sr. Class President in 1950, and served in the US Navy from 1950 to 1954 as an aircraft mechanic. In 1951 he married his high school sweetheart, Sara Lou Wagner from Marietta, and they began their family soon after. In 1960 he graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Architectural Engineering.

Most of Richard’s career was focused in home design and construction while living in South Bend, IN and later on in Arizona City, AZ. However, he always said the job he enjoyed the most was working in maintenance at Ancilla College in Donaldson while they were living in Plymouth, Indiana.

Richard was a master craftsman, woodworker, and inventor of mechanical gadgets; and he continually delighted his family with his creations throughout the years. He had a strong work ethic and his mind and hands were never at rest. He believed each day was an opportunity to learn and do something new, and he couldn’t resist hiking down the many paths that presented themselves along life’s way. He always had something witty to say and never missed an opportunity for a good prank or to come together with family and friends for a celebration. He was strongly committed, generous and honest to a fault. He received many awards over the years for his outstanding volunteer services, including that of a Volunteer Firefighter in Arizona City, AZ.

During their marriage, they had the opportunity to travel all over the United States plus took a couple cruises abroad. They ultimately decided to retire in Arizona where they lived for 30 years before moving to back to Indiana in 2007 to live near their daughter in Whiteland.

Richard is preceded in death by his wife Sara who passed in 2020 after nearly 69 years of marriage. He is survived by his sons Richard Alan Sprague (Patricia) and Michael David Sprague (Victoria); daughter Sandra Lynn Sprague; grandchildren Aaron Sprague (Julie), Shannon Sprague, and Megan Sprague (Mayra); great-grandchildren Colton, Jordan, Loran, Lincoln and Chloe; step great-grandson Rilee; and great-great grandchild Abigail. Richard’s passing has left a huge void in our lives.

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.