Robert R. Sprole, II

Robert R. Sprole, II, age 86, of Ithaca passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Cayuga Medical Center following an extended illness. Robert (Bob) was surrounded by family at the time of his passing.

Bob was an Ithaca native and lifelong resident. He was born in Ithaca on November 23, 1939, the second of four children, to his parents, Robert R. Sprole, Sr. and Zetta K. Sprole. Bob grew up mostly in the Belle Sherman neighborhood of Ithaca. He was a graduate of Ithaca High School and Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida. While at Florida Southern, he met his future wife, Lila F. Park, and they were married on September 17, 1960. Bob and Lila returned to Ithaca to stay in 1962.

Upon returning to Ithaca, Bob officially began his career at Therm, Incorporated. He occupied many roles in a company career that spanned more than six decades, eventually being named as the company’s second president in 1982. In early 1992, he assumed the role of Board Chair, following his father’s passing. He continued in that role until the time of his passing.

Throughout his life, Bob was heavily involved with community not-for-profit organizations that are focused on improving opportunities and conditions for people living in Ithaca and the surrounding area. He served as Board Chair for the Ithaca YMCA and Challenge Industries, among others. He served many other organizations as a Board member and/or donor. Bob was a longtime, active member of the Ithaca Rotary Club, not only enjoying the company of his many Rotary friends, but also as a tireless fundraiser and donor to Rotary’s many community projects.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert, Sr., and Zetta Sprole; his wife, Lila P. Sprole; and his sister, Zetta R. Sprole. Bob is survived by his sisters, Karen S. Jackson (Michael) and Cheryl S. Boice; his children, Robert R. Sprole, III (Shari), Michelle P. Sprole, and Lila S. Westberry; his grandchildren, Melissa L. Sprole, Vanessa N. Landman (Shane), James F. Avery, Jr., Brett B. Avery, and Jessica M. Sprole; and his great-granddaughter, Harley M. Landman. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family would like to thank the many doctors, nurses, and others who tended to and cared for Bob during his illness.

For those who would prefer to make a donation in lieu of flowers, or a memorial donation in honor of Bob, the family suggests the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (myasthenia.org), the Rotary Club of Ithaca (rotary.org), or the local cause of your choice.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Lansing Funeral Home, 32 Auburn Road, Lansing. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at St. Luke Lutheran Church at 109 Oak Avenue in Collegetown.