Charles Lee Sprague Sr

Charles Lee Sprague Sr., age 81, of Prattsburgh, NY, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

Charlie was born on January 16, 1945, in Pulteney, NY, to the late Ruth and J. Guilbert Sprague. He was predeceased by his wife, the love of his life, Betty Jean (Wray) Sprague, whom he married on October 29, 1966, and by his oldest brother, Richard Sprague, and sister-in-law Verna Sprague.

A hardworking and dedicated man, Charlie provided well for his family through his lifelong career as a metal machinist and fabricator, primarily at Haines Equipment in Avoca, NY, as well as through the many jobs completed in his home machine shop. His hands were rarely still, always building, fixing, or helping someone in need.

Charlie was a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast and proud member of the Hornell Motorcycle Club. His love of riding began with a Cushman scooter and continued through his Harley years and later his touring bike. He also found joy in attending local steam pageants, tending to his bees, and restoring antique tractors. Above all else, Charlie loved his family deeply and cherished the many lifelong friendships he formed along the way.

Charlie is survived by his children, Jeanna (David) Hyde, Chuck (Tereasa McGinnity) Sprague Jr., and Sherry (Chris) Ionta; his grandchildren, Scott (April) Towner, Brittany (Richard Kelly) Hyde, Autumn (Damien Penaloza) Sprague, River (Sam Aragon), and Nicholas Ionta; and his great-grandchildren, Ben Wiser, Matthew Decker, Lee Hyde, and Chevy and Lucas Kelly. He is also survived by his brother, James Sprague; nephews Paul, Jim, and Sam Sprague; and niece Tina Carson.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life honoring Charles at the Pulteney Fire Hall, Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 1:00 PM (8891 Brown Rd, Pulteney, NY 14874), where stories, memories, and laughter will reflect a life well lived and deeply loved.

Charlie will be remembered for his kindness, work ethic, love of storytelling, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of love that will be carried on by all who were blessed to know him.