Howard James Sparks

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to National Kidney Foundation or Oasis Compassion Children's Cup - Missionary Sandra Chesterman c/o Oasis Church, 3275 Tig Knight Rd., Loganville, GA 30052. Howard J. Sparks, Jr., born, December 30, 1934, died, Friday, March 20, 2009 at home with his family by his side after a long illness. He is survived by his wife of 52 years Irma Sparks, his two children, Sandra Chesterman (currently of Swaziland Africa), Howard Sparks III and his wife Linda G. Sparks (of Cheshire, CT), four grandchildren, Kristopher Chesterman, Michael Chesterman, H. James Sparks IV, and Kaitlyn Sparks; his two brothers and their wives, Joe and Darlene Sparks, Bob and Delores Sparks of Broken Arrow, OK and seven nephews and nieces and their families. Howard took great pride in his children and their families. Howard worked over 34 years with Continental Baking (Wonder Bread and Hostess Cakes). While in Tulsa, OK, he started in route sales and promoted through the ranks. He retired as Vice President, Thrift Store Development. He mentored and trained many along the way and still had many friends from those days. For many years, Howard officiated high school sports in his spare time. He retired in 1991 at age 56 and enjoyed retirement to the fullest. He golfed extensively at Whitmoor Country Club and mixed in golf vacations in Hawaii and Florida (during Cardinals Spring training). The friends he made in retirement were/are dear and special. Howard was a leader, beloved by his friends and family; a tough, no nonsense, guy who would just keep moving forward and would step in to organize when he saw the need. He will be sorely missed.