Lana passed away Saturday, March 18, 2023, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo.
She was born January 25, 1943 in Plainwell, the daughter of Elwyn and Ida (Sherwood) Sprague. She was a 1961 graduate of Otsego High School and earned her associates degree from KVCC. She had worked at J.M. Wilson Corp., Michigan Liquor Control, Eaton Corp. (Fuller Transmission) and Christian Neighbors.
Lana was a member of the Alamo Community Congregational Church and had served on the board of Friends of the Otsego Library. She was previously married to Roger M. Mason. Lana had no children but was guardian to Gage D. Hatfield.
She is survived by her sister, Deanna Hinkle; niece, Ronda (Jeff) Conner; great nephews, Keenan (Taylor) and Collin (Allison) Conner.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brother-in-law, Ronald Hinkle.
According to her wishes cremation has taken place.
A private graveside service will be held at Mt. Home Cemetery in Otsego.
Contributions in memory of Lana may be made to Great Lakes Rabbit Sanctuary, P.O. Box 7, Whittaker, MI 48190.
Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.
Dave & Wendy Conner
Deanna & Ronda,
Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time . We are so sorry for the loss of your sister and aunt.
Randi
Lana was a dear friend of my Mom, Ruth. She brought alot of joy to my Mom’s life. Our hearts go out to Deanna, Lana’s niece and nephews and the rest of her family and friends.
Alison
Lana was my big sister..she was a nice friend too.
From Alison
Craig & Lorna Sisson
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family, Deana. May fond memories of Lana fill your hearts as you deal with her loss. God bless,
Lorna and Craig
Theresa Sours
Lana was a neighbor. She was a very giving person, always thinking of other people’s needs. She will be missed.
Jackie Esterline
Deanna,
Lana was my first new friend when I retired 21 years ago and joined the Mystery Book Club. Among many fond memories or our friendship is the week-long trip we took to South Dakota for my cousins 50th Anniversary. What a hoot! She was a great friend. Thank you for sharing her with me and many others.
Jackie Esterline
Lynea Hartig
Lana always humbly referred to herself as Gage’s guardian. She was so much more to this young man who she loved as her son. Lana seemed to understand Gage better than any of us. She was patient and kind and made sure he was able to pursue activities he enjoyed: playing trombone, golf, and of course computer games. Lana faithfully helped Gage deliver the Shopper, watched him march in parades, generously provided a cool wardrobe, planned trips up north together, and welcomed his friends to their home. Lana was so proud when Gage graduated from OHS. She always said God told her to bring him into her family and I believe that to be true.
Lana’s tales of growing up a tomboy brought a smile to both our faces. She was loyal to the Fennville Rod and Gun Club, cooking several dishes with Gage last fall to contribute to their annual potluck. She was very determined to be part of that meal even though she was ailing. I loved to hear stories about her various jobs and all the work responsibilities she took on, even in high school. Lana may never have been the official “boss” but she appeared to run the show. She was a voracious reader enjoying all kinds of fiction and non-fiction, often rereading her favorite books. Lana was often generous to missionaries and needy folks, usually on the sly. I feel blessed to have had Lana as a friend these past 10 or 11 years. Her faith bolstered mine when it was shaky and it was sweet to pray over her during her long illness. I am sorry to have lost this genuine friend but I rejoice that Lana is no longer in pain and is in the presence of her Savior.
John Whyte
Lana was a wonderful person, a good friend and very hard worker at Eaton Corporation. She made the tough decision to go to school at night to get her college degree and succeeded. Lana kept us all in line in the sales department. Rest in peace.