BASS Federation angler passes away

Ray Sprano Sr. of St. Alban's Bay, Vt., died in his sleep Friday night in Tulsa, Okla.  Sprano was the Vermont BASS Federation representative competing in the CITGO BASS Federation Championship.

BASS and ESPN offered the following statement: "We are deeply saddened by the death of Ray Sprano, who passed away in his sleep.  Ray was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather and a talented fisherman.  He was a leader and a hardworking, committed family man.  Our hearts and thoughts are with Sheila and their family."

Sprano was the owner and president of Raymond A. Sprano and Sons Construction Co., and a founder and the first president of the Vermont BASS Federation.  He was a skilled angler who qualified for the Federation Championship in 2000 and 2004.  He was an 11-time member of Vermont's state team.  Sprano belonged to the Green Mountain Bassmaster Club.

The tournament continued on Saturday, with the final day of competition dedicated in Sprano's honor.