Richard “Dick” Spracklin of Salina peacefully passed away at Salina Regional Health Center Monday February 12, 2024

Dick the son of Elroy and Violet (Naegele) Spracklin was born January 20, 1943, in Fort Riley, Kansas later moving to Sylvan Grove Kansas where he grew up and graduated from Sylvan High school.

Dick had fond memories growing up in Sylvan Grove with all of his aunts, uncles and cousins, the Naegeles.

Dick moved to Salina and was working at a gas station when he met the love of his life, Alma, who lived next door. The two were married and soon after had a son, Tom.

Dick was very proud of his almost 30, year career with the Salina Fire Department as well as his off-duty job installing carpet with Alma working by his side.

Dick had a passion (obsession) for cars. In the mid to late 70’s he began customizing vans then turning to street rods. Dick built from the ground up many old hot rods.

He enjoyed traveling the country with Alma and countless friends going to car shows, showing off his amazing cars and winning many awards. He also enjoyed traveling the countryside with his trusty side kick Paul buying, selling whatever car treasures they could find and sharing his years of car wisdom.

But his main passion was his family. Spending time with Alma, Tom and his grandkids. For their entire school years Dick could be found taking Emily, Lucas and Tanner to and from school and activities.

After Alma’s passing in 2020 Dick took a part time job driving for Conklin’s. He loved his new job and the new Conklin friends he made.

Dick was preceded in death by his loving wife Alma, parents Elroy and Violet Spracklin and sister, Leeann Nelson. He is survived by his children Brenda Mettlen, Cindy (Lee) Soldan and his son Tom Spracklin. Grandkids, Andrew and Logan Mettlen, Daryl Armstrong, Morgan Soldan, Emily, Lucas and Tanner Spracklin.

A memorial service has been planned for Monday February 26 at 10 am at Ryan Mortuary. There will be no procession but if anyone would like to drive their hot rods to the service, I know Dick would have loved it! Please dress casually.

Memorials may be made to the Salina Animal Shelter.