Obituary for James Dean Sparks

James Dean Sparks, 52, of Boone, Iowa, died Friday, January 19, 2007 at Mary Greeley Hospital in Ames, Iowa after a long battle with cancer. A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Leonard Good Center in Ogden, Iowa from 6-9 P.M. on January 23, 2007. Arrangements and cremation entrusted to the Cremation Society of Eastern-Central-Western Iowa. Survivors include his wife Martha Sparks of Boone, Iowa; Mother Grace E. Sellers of Boone, Iowa; three daughters: Minnia Sturtz and husband Jay, Melonie Miner and significant other Mitch Brown, both of Boone, Iowa and Nicole Sparks of California; two sisters: Donna Fiarino and husband Dominic and Sharon Sparks, both of Boone, Iowa; and three grandchildren: Madalyn, Alexander and Charles Sturtz, all of Boone, Iowa. James was preceded in death by his father Clifford Sparks. James D. Sparks was born January 23, 1954 in Downey, California to Clifford L. and Grace E. Sellers Sparks. James was a railroad engineer for the Union Pacific Railroad. Jim enjoyed family and friends. He grew up playing baseball all the way from little league through college, and was then drafted by the triple A team for the California Angels. He moved to Boone in 1987. Jim enjoyed traveling, golfing, family, and spending time on the beaches of Florida. Jim enjoyed trips on his Harley and spending time on the beaches of Florida. A special thanks to Mary Greeley Oncology Unit, Dr Merchant, Dr. Thorgaard, and Dr Yee of Ames. Memorials may be sent to Members First Community Credit Union in Boone, Iowa. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.iowacremation.com.