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Wayne C. Sparks

1934 - 2021

Wayne C. Sparks obituary, 1934-2021, Sonora, CA

BORN

1934

DIED

2021

Wayne Sparks Obituary

It is with a saddened heart but joy for the life that he lived that we share that Wayne C. Sparks passed away peacefully on July 31, 2021.
He is survived by his loving wife, Helen Sparks; children Dave Sparks, Ginny Cady and Steve Sparks; daughter-in-law Veida Sparks, son-in-law John Cady; grandchildren Heather Sparks and Ben Cady.
Wayne was born on Nov. 18, 1934, to Norval and Dorothy Sparks. He spent his early childhood in Wallace, Nebraska, Mesa, Arizona, and then Belmont, California, where he completed High School. Wayne continued his education and graduated from San Jose State with a degree in engineering. He also participated in the ROTC and then served in the armed forces, achieving the rank of 1st lieutenant. Once Wayne left the service, he pursued a career in engineering and was employed with various companies.
After living many years in the Bay Area he moved his family to Sonora. It was there that Wayne changed careers and followed his heart to serve as a pastor at Chapel in the Pines. He had great love for the congregation as well as the community. He welcomed everyone as family. He served in many different ministries, but the one closest to his heart was Light House serving those experiencing homelessness.
Wayne had an adventurous soul. He loved to travel, fish, hunt, backpack and camp. To Wayne, nothing was better than the great outdoors. He took his family on many off-the-trail adventures that often went awry. He leaves us with many memories that will be cherished.
Wayne will be missed by many. Family services will be held in both California and Colorado at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Light House Ministries, where Wayne served for many years. The address is Light House Ministries, P.O. Box 5403, Sonora, CA 95370, or call (209) 559-5968
Condolences, memories, pictures and video messages can be sent to Helen and family at [email protected].

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Sonora Union Democrat from Sep. 10 to Sep. 11, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
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2 Entries

Sady Katya Brine

September 12, 2021

Dearest Aunt Helen and families;
I offer to you all my deepest condolences. Uncle Wayne was a beloved, gentle influence in my life. I will never forget the weeks I spent in Sonora during my 15th year. He was a wave of calm leadership during my trip...a kindness of spirit that has never left me.

My daughter took just a few minutes to fall in love with him growing so very close to him so quickly during his visit here in Canada some years ago. His guiding voice as soft as a cloud was captivating to her, and has never left her either.

We will stay tuned for news as to when you are able to have a service for him. Bless all of you as you work through your grief and know that we in Canada love you so much. Take good care of each other. With so much love, your cousin and niece.

Liz Branson Hornberger

September 12, 2021

So proud to call Wayne, my cousin-in-law!! Will see again someday in heaven!!!

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