Steven Samuel Sprague, 53, of Dubuque, IA, finished his final race on February 11, 2024.  He crossed the finish line proudly, receiving his gold medal in Heaven, to be held in Gods arms and be with “Mudder” and Les forever.  His brother Randy along with his best friends and buddies Brewster boy, Bruno, and Panda were by his side.  And, yes of course his camera too.

Visitation will be on February 18, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, IA. A Celebration of Steven’s life will begin at 3:00 p.m. with Deacon David Roth Officiating.  A private burial will be held in Mt. Calvary cemetery at a later date.

Steven was born October 16, 1970, the youngest child and son of Leslie and Gloria (Entringer) Sprague.  Steve was born with many challenges, special needs, and intellectual disabilities.  Later in life he faced each one head on and did not let any of them stop him.

Steven received special education at Audubon, Eisenhower, and Hempstead High School, graduating in 1992.  He was proud to wear his cap and gown and to receive his diploma.

He attended vocational training programs here in Dubuque at Goodwill, Area Residential Care, and Hills and Dales.  He met many great people during those years and received so much love and care.  Somehow or another he left a memory for each person he met to remember him.

Steven finally slowed things down and “retired” but he did not stop by any means and spent the rest of his days having the time of his life attending Cozy Corners doing the things he liked best. Dancing, singing and of course taking pictures.  Never was there a day he did not wear a smile at Cozy Corners.  Thank you, Bob, Mariko and Staff.  You all are simply the best.

For many years, Steven was a Special Olympian, participating in many different events, bike racing, bowling, weightlifting, baseball, swimming, and skiing in the winter.  He was proud of the numerous medals and ribbons he worked so hard for and won.

Those left with great memories to hold in their hearts forever are his brothers Randy Sprague of Dubuque, IA, Ronald (Monika Stefan) Burke of Deerfield, IL, sisters Julie Burke and Laura Burke of Chicago, IL.  Steven is also survived by four other siblings Connie, Barb, Terry, and Gary.  Many nieces and nephews, great nieces, and nephews, and one great-great nephew and another one on the way.

Steven was proceeded in death by his parents Leslie “Les” and Gloria Sprague, his maternal and paternal grandparents, a brother-in-law, and a great niece.

To Peggy O’Neill, there are not enough words to express the thankfulness for the love and care you gave Steven over the past 10 years.  I could never have done this without you.

Also, a special thank you to the entire staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jennifer, Ryan, and Kevin, your loving care made this difficult time easier to bare.

The family request no flowers. A Steven Samuel Sprague memorial fund will be established.