David F. Sprankle Sr. was born 09/12/1940 at home in Liberty Twp, Adams County, PA, the 2nd of 6 children born to the late Lawrence F. and Geneva (Patty) Adams Sprankle, grandson of Earl and Thelma Sanders Adams and Marshall and Annie Butt Sprankle.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Margaret (Cullison) Sprankle of Biglerville.
Dave passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at home surrounded by his family due to complications from dementia and contracting COVID/pneumonia.
He is also survived by his children David F. Sprankle, Jr. of Gettysburg, Tammy (Mark) Cooper of Biglerville, Gina Brumgard of Biglerville and Amy (Mike) Coover of Shippensburg and son-in-law Chris (Mandy) Brumgard; grandchildren, Brad and Brian Cooper, Cody Brumgard and Carlee Griest; great-grandsons, Quentin Cooper, Grayson and Emmitt Griest, step-grandchildren Moxen and Trent Stambaugh.
Dave was predeceased by 2 brothers, John and Allen, and is survived by sisters Pat Joy (Mike), Theresa Bean and brother Larry Sprankle.
Dave was a 1959 graduate of Fairfield High School. He worked at Westinghouse/Schindler Elevator for 33 years. Upon retirement Dave started employment with Adams County Courthouse as a tipstaff for the next 17 years, until he reached 80 years old and retired due to the onset of dementia.
Dave enjoyed anything sports related as a spectator and participant. He really enjoyed pitching horseshoes and playing volleyball at family picnics/reunions and Sunday evening pickup basketball games at St. Francis Xavier gym, where he once took an elbow to the nose from Father Mike and was convinced it was broken. He also coached CYO Basketball at St. Francis Xavier.
Dave was a distinguished athlete in both baseball and basketball during his years at Fairfield High School, with several excerpts preserved at https://youtu.be/GPMng–pc10. Following his graduation, he remained active in the local community through his participation in bowling and softball leagues.
Dave was an avid supporter of Mt. Saint Mary’s basketball and a loyal fan of the LA Dodgers and Notre Dame football. You could always find him at many Upper Adams Canners sporting events along with his brother John and watching his grandchildren’s sporting events.
Dave was a huge supporter of the PA Lottery System, using up his children’s inheritance! You could find him at many of the family events ignoring his surroundings…“Just a Scratchin.”
Dave, not initially a dog lover, soon became the owner of 2 Basset Hounds named Charlie and Harvey, which melted his heart. After they passed, he became the owner of 2 Corgis named George and Henry. Again, spending many moments with his “boys”, just “Sittin and Scratchin.”
Dave’s loves in life (in this order) were always work, cold Miller Lite, his dogs and lottery. (Hmmm, we always wondered where his wife and children fit into this scenario!)
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Amedisys Hospice of York and all the special nurses and nurses’ aides they sent our way. We were only able to get through this journey with their support.
Services will be held this Saturday, January 24, 2026 with the viewing from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and a Mass of Christian Burial immediately following at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 25 West High Street, Gettysburg with Fr. Michael Pray, Celebrant.
Interment will be private.
Casual attire requested, dress comfortably. If you are a LA Dodgers or Notre Dame fan, feel free to wear team colors.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to: St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital, Adams County SPCA or Amedisys Hospice at 984 Loucks Road, Suite 1, York, PA 17404.
Dave’s shout out to all was always “How Sweet it Is” (of course, after a few beers!) We ask all to be mindful in the moments spent with your family and friends, and remember how truly sweet those moments are.
Online tributes and condolences can be made at the funeral home’s website.
