From the Parkway Independant:

James Michael “Mike” Sprague, age 77, of rural Rockford, passed away Tuesday,  March 13, 2018, at his residence. 

Born February 16, 1941 in St. Marys, he was a son of the late James Edward & Edna Hunter Sprague. 

Mike married Jeanne Van Gundy on October 16, 1966.  

She survives, along with their two Daughters: Nancy Sprague and Toni Sprague ( Les Arnett ) of Rockford, 4 Grandchildren, a Great Granddaughter, 3 Step-Grandchildren, a Brother & Sister: George ( Marie ) Sprague and Betty Koch, and Brother & Sisters-in-law: Dave ( Debi ) Van Gundy of Celina, Andrea Van Gundy of Ohio City, and Rosa Van Gundy of Van Wert.    

Preceding him in death were an infant son,  Johnny James Sprague, and Brothers-in-law: James, George, and Ralph Van Gundy. 

He was a 1960 graduate of St. Marys High School, and served in the U.S. Navy from July 1961 to September 1965.  While stationed aboard the USS Fiske, Mike participated in the Cuban Blockade in 1962.  He was a member of Celina American Legion Post #210. 

Mike retired from the Goodyear Plant in St. Marys after 35 years of service,and was a member of United Steelworkers Local #200. 

A member of Mendon United Methodist Church, Mike and his wife Jeanne also served for many years as custodians at the church. 

Mike enjoyed reading, traveling, Paint-by-Number, and puttering around his shop. 

Visitation will be held from 2:00-5:00 PM, Sunday, March 18 and  10:00-11:00 AM, Monday, March 19, at Mendon United Methodist Church. 

Funeral Services will begin at 11:00 AM, Monday, at the Church, with Pastors Rob Glenn, Don Clinger and Chuck Eagle officiating. 

Burial will follow at Tomlinson Cemetery in Union Township, with military rites to be conducted by members of Celina American Legion Post #210 and VFW Post #5713. 

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or the Veterans organization of the donor's choice. 

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at dickandsonshellwarthfh.com   

Arrangements are being handled by W.H. DICK & SONS - HELLWARTH FUNERAL HOME, MENDON