IL SR1675

Honors Merritt William Sprague of Hull, who died on October 4, 2014, at age 80.

Sprague earned a degree in agricultural science from the University of Illinois, served as an Army captain, and farmed for 25 years before federal service.

Served as Deputy Administrator for Commodity Operations in the Reagan Administration and manager of the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, testifying before Congress on agricultural issues.

Held leadership roles in agriculture and community organizations including the Illinois Farm Bureau Young Farmers Committee, Pike County Farm Service Board, 4-H, and the United Baptist Church of Hull.

Senate extends condolences to his surviving spouse Patricia, two sons, three grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and extended family.