Lonnie Dale Sprague, a respected member of the Kincaid community, passed away on December 27, 2025, at the age of 71. His legacy will be remembered by family, friends, and colleagues who admired his dedication to farming, banking, and community service.
Born on November 15, 1954, in Iola, Kansas, Lonnie was the eldest of three children born to Dale and Fern Sprague. He spent his childhood on the family farm near Lone Elm, where he developed a strong work ethic and a passion for agriculture. He attended Lone Elm Grade School and Crest Junior High, later graduating from Crest High School in 1973. Lonnie’s commitment to his community was evident even during his school years, where he participated in football and the Future Farmers of America (FFA).
From a young age, Lonnie demonstrated a hardworking spirit, starting his career by assisting his father on the family farm. Over the years, he transitioned to managing his own farming operations, where he took great pride in raising cattle. He shared this passion with his son, Joe Sprague, continuing the family tradition of farming.
On November 30, 1974, Lonnie married his high school sweetheart, Jo Helen Harris, in Kincaid. Together, they raised two sons, Joe and Justin Sprague. Lonnie was not only a devoted husband but also an engaged father. He actively supported his sons in various activities, including coaching their baseball teams and spending quality time playing card games late into the night. His teachings extended beyond sports, as he passed on valuable life lessons about responsibility and care for animals.
Lonnie’s professional journey included significant contributions to the financial sector. In 1982, he joined the board of directors for Farmers State Bank. He began working at the bank in 1987, serving the communities of Blue Mound and Garnett until his retirement as executive vice president in 2022. His approachable nature and ability to connect with customers made him a vital part of the local agricultural community.
His commitment to community service was further exemplified through his role on the board of trustees for the Anderson County Hospital, where he served from 2000 to 2022. Lonnie took great pride in witnessing the hospital’s growth and the development of its current facility.
An avid outdoorsman, Lonnie enjoyed fishing and hunting. He frequently traveled to Branson for trout fishing and made memorable trips to Alaska with friends. In recent years, he rekindled an old hobby and became a skilled trap shooter, winning multiple competitions with the Lone Tree Gun Club. He and Jo Helen also enjoyed various activities together, ranging from co-ed volleyball to ballroom dancing.
Lonnie was a cherished grandfather, spending countless hours supporting and spoiling his grandchildren: Julianna, Shelby, and Sam. He shared many cherished moments with family, whether checking cattle or exploring the countryside for wildlife. Additionally, he was a neighbor known for his willingness to lend a hand, whether helping with chores or providing transportation for friends.
Lonnie is survived by his wife, Jo Helen Sprague; his sons, Joe and his wife Nikki, and Justin and his wife Jenna; his three grandchildren; two sisters, Trish Gaynor and Shayla Sprague; his stepmother, Janice Sprague; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Dale Sprague; his mother, Fern Wolken; her husband, John; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Sam and Evelyn Harris; and his brother-in-law, Steve Herynk.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 on January 2, 2026, at the Feuerborn Family Funeral Service Chapel in Garnett, with burial to follow at Kincaid Cemetery. Family and friends will have the opportunity to greet the Sprague family from 15:00 to 17:00 on January 1 at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Kincaid-Selma Community Church or the Kincaid Fair Association and left in care of the funeral home. For condolences, visit www.feuerbornfuneral.com.
Lonnie Sprague will be deeply missed, but his impact on his family, friends, and community will continue to resonate for years to come.
