Ralph H. Sprague

“Gus”

 Elmira:  Age 99, passed away on Friday, January 21, 2011 at the Chemung County Nursing Facility.  Gus was a son of the late Claude A. and Nellie (Holahan) Sprague.  In addition to his parents Gus is predeceased by his first wife Angeline and second wife Eleanor; brothers, Gerald and Andrew Sprague; sister Marion Sprague.  He is survived by his wife of 16 years Florence “Pat” Giammichele Sprague; step children, Joseph Giammichele with Phyllis Woodruff of Horseheads, Nicholas Giammichele with wife Sherry of Lockport NY, Rose “Ria” Giammichele of Horseheads; sister Martha Sprague of Winter Haven FL; several step grandchildren and step great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.  Gus is also survived by his best friend and canine companion, Lucy. He was a veteran of both WW II and Korea having served with the US Army from 1939 – 1965.  Gus retired from the U. S. Postal Service in 1977.  He was a lifetime member of the Elmira Heights American Legion Post #154, the I.A.V. Club and N.A.R.F.E.  Gus had a very active life dancing and socializing with many friends associated with widow & widowers group, and the Chemung Valley Senior Citizens.  He was loved by all who knew him and he will be greatly missed.  Friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, corner of W. Water and Walnut Streets, on Friday, January 28, 2011 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  A prayer service will be held there on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 10:15 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. in St. Casimir’s Church.  Donations in memory of Gus may be directed to the S.P.C.A., Route 352, Elmira NY 14901, or to a charity of one’s choice.  The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the 3rd floor nursing staff at the Chemung County Nursing Facility for the wonderful care given to Gus over the last six years.  Members of the Italian American Veterans Club will meet at McInerny Funeral Home on Friday, January 28, 2011 at 7:00 p.m., to conduct a prayer service for our deceased comrade, Ralph H. Sprague.  Signed, Geno Dunn, Commander

 

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