Obituary: Rodney “Mike” Sprague, 75, of Janesville

Rodney ‘Mike’ Sprague, age 75, of Janesville, WI departed this life on Monday, February 12, 2024.

Mike was born on January 29, 1949, in Geneva Township, WI, the son of Edward F. and Helen M. (Gerlach) Sprague.

He graduated from Elkhorn High School in 1968. Then went on to proudly served in the U.S. Army, during the Vietnam War, as a Light Weapons Infantryman. During this time he received numerous medals including; Vietnam Service medal with two Bronze Service Stars and Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf cluster. Upon returning home with honorable discharge he met and married the love of his life Christine ‘Chris’ Hoefler on February 9, 1974. They went on to have two daughters Laura and Lydia.

He spent many years employed at Mastermold in Johnson Creek as a supervisor. In his retirement he enjoyed gardening, being a “handyman,” telling sarcastic jokes and spending time with his dogs.

His love though was his family- attending their sporting events cheering them on and spoiling his only grandchild Gianna who called him Bapa.

Mike is survived by his wife Chris Sprague; two daughters Laura (Quincy) Hutcherson and Lydia Sprague; granddaughter Gianna Hutcherson; brother Robert (Linda) Sprague, sister Kathleen Ball; his dog Winnie; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers: Jerome and Ross Sprague; two sisters: A. Diane Crusan and Jeanne Flitcroft.

Mike will have a private burial with Full Military Honors at a later date. The APFEL WOLFE FUNERAL HOME, Janesville, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.apfelwolfe.com

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