David A. Sprague

1941 - 2024

David A. Sprague
Born: May 7, 1941 in Oneida, NY
Died: March 9, 2024 in Shepherd, MI
Dr. David A. Sprague, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed educator, passed away on March 9, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, kindness, and profound impact. He was born on May 7, 1941, in Oneida, NY, to Clayton and Lenora Sprague. Growing up alongside his sister Nancy in Morrison, IL, David's early years were marked by warmth, family, and a love for learning. David pursued his passion for education, graduating from the General Motors Institute in Flint, Michigan, in 1964 with a degree in industrial engineering. He furthered his academic journey by earning an MBA from Northwestern University in 1968. Driven by a thirst for knowledge, David returned to college at the University of Iowa, where he obtained his Ph.D. in 1975. Throughout his career, David made significant contributions to academia, teaching at Western Illinois University in Macomb, IL, and later at Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant, MI. He served as the Chairman of the Management Department at Central Michigan University, where he played a pivotal role in developing programs for the College of Extended Learning. In June 1962, David married his high school sweetheart, Judy, sharing 61 years of unwavering love and companionship. Together, they were blessed with two children, Dan (Colleen) and Beth (John). David cherished his role as a father and reveled in the joy of being a grandfather to five grandchildren: Michael (Ashley), Danielle, David, Anna (Shea), and Ashley. David's retirement in 2006 marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. With a dream to own a cow calf operation, he lovingly tended to his farm, affectionately referring to his cows as "the ladies." Ebony Farm became not only a place of business but also a gathering spot for local farmers and friends, reflecting David's welcoming spirit and sense of community. In the embrace of his family and surrounded by the beauty of nature, David found solace and fulfillment. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his teaching, his kindness, and his unwavering love for his family. While he is preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Jill, David's memory will forever be cherished by all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace, his spirit forever guiding those who were fortunate enough to call him husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Services for David will be Friday, March 15 at 11 A.M. at the Shepherd United Methodist Church with Reverend Bill Chu and Dave Peters officiating. There will be visitation on Thursday, March 14 from 4 to 8 P.M. at Berry Funeral Home in Shepherd. Interment will take place Saturday, March 16 at Grove Hill Cemetery in Whiteside County, IL. Memorial contributions can be made on behalf of David to the Shepherd United Methodist Church.