Glen Sprague

   It is with great sadness that the family of Glen Sprague announce his passing on Sunday, August 25, 2024, at the Crowsnest Pass Health Center, Blairmore, AB in his 97th year. 

   Glen was born April 30, 1928 in Arthurette, New Brunswick to Robert Elwood Sprague and Emma Bell. He was very proud of his New Brunswick heritage, often reminiscing about growing up along the banks of the Tobique River. He faced many challenges at an early age, losing his mother and being raised by his eldest sister. He traveled back and forth across the country with his brothers, trying out various jobs, working on the railroad, in logging camps and running a restaurant with his brother Jim. While in Saskatchewan, his brother Bruce introduced him to Bruce’s wife’s niece, Bernice McAdoo, and he soon proposed by slipping an engagement ring into a box of Cracker Jacks. Glen and Bernice were married on July 2, 1957, and took the train to southern Ontario where Glen started his woodworking career at Gardiner’s in Galt. As he learned the trade, he spoke often of the woodwork he did on such places as the interior of the Royal York Hotel in Toronto. He was a hard worker and a fast learner. 

   Glen and Bernice had five children: Chris, Dawn, Mitchell, Jennifer and Jessica. In 1974, the family relocated to Brandon, MB to be closer to Bernice’s parents. From there, they lived in Rivers, MB and then set up their upholstery business in Wolseley, SK. They moved to the Crowsnest Pass, AB in 2005 to be closer to their youngest daughter, Jessica. Glen enjoyed home improvements and puttering in his workshop. Over the years he built cedar chests, cradles for his babies, chests of drawers, put down flooring, built his upholstery shop, rebuilt his entire garage, and recovered, repaired and refinished countless pieces of furniture. In his later years he took up wood-carving, a pastime of his father’s, and his carvings have become cherished family heirlooms. Glen remained very sharp and could be seen walking end to end in town, usually with his loyal dog at his heels. He enjoyed reading the latest Grisham novel, watching hockey and baseball, and had recently developed an interest in basketball.  He will be remembered with love and respect. 

   Left to mourn his passing is his beloved wife of 67 years, Bernice, as well as children Chris of Garibaldi Highlands, Dawn (David) of Ottawa, Mitchell (Elke) of Ottawa, Jennifer (Blaine) of Red Deer and Jessica (Curtis) of Crowsnest Pass. He will be missed by grandchildren Katie (Scott), Andrew, Lu (Maraina), Shelly (Kaitie), Dana, Colin, Miles, Avery, Bethany and great-grandchildren Elliot and Felix. He was predeceased by his parents and all 13 of his siblings; he was the last of an era. 

   At Glen’s request, there will be no service. His family wishes to thank Dr. Rudecki and the wonderful staff at Crowsnest Pass Health Center and Peaks to Pines Seniors Lodge for their kind and compassionate care.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the Peaks To Pines Residents’ Association (PO Box 580 Coleman, AB T0K 0M0).  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555

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