Erick Sprunger

Erick Steven Sprunger, 76, of Sacramento, California passed away peacefully at home Dec. 8, 2023, following a gallant battle with cancer. He was born in Decatur July 28, 1947, to Delbert and Irene Zuercher Sprunger — owners of the Music Haus establishment on U.S. 27 South in Berne. He married Mary Jane Popp in 1971.
He graduated from Berne High School in 1965. He excelled in a cappella choir and percussion in the high school band. He was a former member of First Mennonite Church in Berne.
He was a graduate of Indiana University and proudly marched with the “IU Marching 100” Jan. 1, 1968, in the Rose Bowl Parade and football game. This was the first and only time IU has appeared on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1 in California. He proudly served his country as a decorated lieutenant colonel in the United States Army, serving in Vietnam. He loved animal charities.
His loving wife stated, “As Rick’s wife, I can truly say, ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’ absolutely describes the life of my beloved Rick Sprunger. He was a great son, dedicated and loving husband for nearly 53 years. He also was a decorated Vietnam veteran, and so caring that he always had my back for whatever I created from the most serious to the crazy antics I came up with. He was always there for me from being a cameraman for my TV work to helping me make my dreams a reality.
“He was ‘one-of-a-kind’ in all he did from writing scripts to producing award winning films for the government. His creative talents always shined. Whatever task Rick took on, you could count on it being perfection. To say he will be missed will never be enough! However, we are and always will be soulmates forever.
“He was so dedicated to animal rescues like ‘Golden Retriever Homeward Bound.’ For over 10 years, he helped to retrain and let frightened dogs know they were loved. Rick cared for all creatures big and small.”
He is survived by his wife; sister-in-law, Mary Frances Popp; two four-legged kids, Ice and Trekker; and his great family of cousins proudly hailing from the Swiss community of Berne.
Funeral services will be at noon Thursday, Jan. 11 at Sierra View Funeral Home, 6201 Fair Oaks Blvd., Carmichael, California, beginning with an honor guard presentation.
Donations may be made to a charity of choice in Rick Sprunger’s name.