MATTHEW SPRAGUE

Life's journey ended far too early for 6 year old Matthew Chesney Sprague on April 24, 2012, at Progress West Hospital in O'Fallon, Mo., in the presence of his loving parents, Hugh and Michele Sprague. Matthew was born at Mercy Hospital in Creve Coeur, Mo., on April 28, 2005. He was in 1st grade, and attended Rock Creek Elementary School in O'Fallon, where he was loved by all. Matthew is survived by his two loving parents, Michele and Hugh Sprague; his grandfathers, Hugh Sprague Sr. and Gary Miller; three aunts and uncles, Kim (Jon) Burns, Chesney (Tim) Eden, and Elizabeth (Perry) Brandt; seven cousins, Katelynn, Brandon, Reagan, Jackson Burns; John and Charlie Eden, and Betsy Brandt; great aunt and uncle, Doris (Bob) Vogt. Matthew is preceded in death by grandmothers, Diana Miller and Sally Sprague, and his great- grandparents, Gerald and Marie Frazier. Those who knew Matthew, who felt his warm hugs, sweet kisses, and affectionate heart, were blessed to experience the pure innocent love of Christ on earth. Wherever Matthew went, be it the park, playground, church, or school, he always seemed to make new friends. He had such a heart for others, and developed a growing faith through the love of his parents and through the kids' ministries at The Crossing Church (Chesterfield, Mo.,) and Summit Community Church (Redeemer Church, O'Fallon). Matthew loved all sports but his favorite was baseball. He loved the Cardinals. He aspired to be a professional baseball pitcher or catcher. During the off season, he preferred to watch the DVD's of the 2006 and 2011 World Series over and over again rather than cartoons and video games. The past two seasons he played youth baseball for the Pumas through the SPAA. Matthew's beautiful smile and tender heart have touched so many lives. We invite you to come and share your stories and your love with our family at Baue Funeral & Memorial Center, 3950 W. Clay St., St. Charles, Mo. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, April 29, with a Celebration of Life at 12 p.m. Monday, April 30. In lieu of flowers, memorials maybe made to the Matthew Sprague Memorial Fund. Share your condolences and memories at baue.com.