Dale Allen Sprague Sr.

Dale A. "Gramps" Sprague, Sr., age 75, of Cortland, died peacefully on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, in the care of his loving family after a brief battle with cancer. He spent his last days surrounded by loved ones at his favorite place on earth, "the Farm." He was born on September 1, 1936 in Warren, a son of the late Allen Sprague and the late Candace Snyder Sprague. Dale lived most of his life raising his family in Cortland. A skilled mason by trade, he contributed to the construction of countless homes and buildings throughout NE Ohio and western PA . Tangible reminders of his creativity and skill remain in the exceptional stone and brickwork found in many special projects. Fueled by a tenacious work ethic, Dale never retired. After closing Sprague Construction he joined Sunburst Environmental Services where he excelled at "community relations." His cheerful, kind, and humble nature, along with a pervasive sense of humor endeared him to everyone who knew him. Dale was a founding member and past president of the Cortland Optimist Club. He took great pride in the contributions the club made to the community and remained an active member, working bingo until a few weeks before his death. Dale leaves behind his wife of 56 years, Ann Banning Sprague; daughters, Sherri (Ken) Stafford and Laura (Glen) Sprague, MD, sons, Dale Sprague Jr. and Scott (Claudia) Sprague. Also surviving are four grandchildren, Kenny (Nicole) Stafford, Kayla (Scott) Denman, Kelly Richardson, and Hannah Sprague and three great grandchildren plus one expected soon. He was preceded in death by a brother, James Sprague and a sister, Marlyn McCallister. The family will receive friends from 2PM 4PM on Saturday, April 21, 2012 at the Shafer-Winans Funeral Chapel in Cortland. A memorial service will be held on Saturday at 4PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Hospice House of Poland, 9803 Sharrott Rd., Poland, OH. 44514 Family and friends may view this obituary and send condolences at www.shaferwinanschapel.com