James Spragge

SPRAGGE, James Allan It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Allan Spragge at 96 years old, on Monday, December 27, 2010. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Reta (nee Thurston), his sister Elsie Harrison (nee Spragge) and his brother Donald Spragge. He was born in Victoria, BC on Aug 9th, 1914. He spent much of his early years in Vancouver and Victoria, and graduated from UBC with a Bachelor of Arts/Chemistry in 1934 and subsequently obtained a Masters Degree in 1935. He taught for several years in BC School districts (North Vancouver included) and during that time, along with an associate, wrote a text book which was used in Science Education for many years in the BC School system. He left the North Vancouver School District to join the staff of the BC Teachers Federation. During his time there, he along with other BCTF staff members Charlie Ovans and Stan Evans are credited with uniting the teachers of B.C., improving their economic status, and setting the stage for their many professional development activities. He and Reta were long term members of the Point Grey Golf Club, and were well known for their love of golf and bridge. He is survived by his sisters-in-law Audrey Hodson (nee Thurston), Evelyn Spragge (nee Cassel) and her son and daughter David Spragge and Julie Riccio, brother-in-law Thomas Allan Harrison and his daughters Jean Hillman and Susan Williams, all of their families and many cousins in the Middleton family. He will be remembered fondly for his wit and unique sense of humour, which he shared with all who knew him. Many thanks go to his constant and loving caregivers , Carmencita Manuel and Kristal Rubia for their kind and thoughtful care given to Allan during the last several years. At Allan's request there will be no service, gifts or donations.