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Don Sparks Obituary
Don Lewis Sparks, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend passed away peacefully at his home June 2, 2019 in Bristow, VA.
Don was born on November 6, 1928 to Audie and Madge Sparks. He was raised in Fort Worth, Texas, and excelled in track and field as a state champion mile runner. He won numerous awards and held the title of running the fastest mile in high school for many years in Fort Worth. He was awarded a full scholarship to the University of Texas for his accomplishments as a high school track star.
He married his high school sweetheart (Wanda) Joyce Hathcock on July 16, 1948. They were the proud parents of a daughter and two sons.
Don's career started as a sports trainer while he served in the U.S. Air Force and then continued as an athletic trainer and coach at the high school and college levels which led to being an ABA/ NBA career as a sports trainer. Don was hired by the New Orleans Jazz when the team was formed in 1974. Among the Jazz's most famous players was 'Pistol' Pete Maravich, who starred as one of the greatest college and NBA players of all time. Don and Pete were best of friends, both on a personal and professional level. He moved with the team to Salt Lake City, UT in 1979. Don served as the team trainer under the great coaches Frank Layden and Jerry Sloan, in an era in which the Utah Jazz were among the very best teams in all of basketball. With the Jazz, Don served as trainer for many great players, among them future Hall of Famers John Stockton and Karl Malone. Don was awarded the title of NBA trainer of the year three times during his professional career. Don Sparks, "Sparky" was also earned the nickname "Magic Fingers" for the successes and miracles he performed with his talented hands and fingers on injuries. He was truly, the best of the best.
After retirement Don and Joyce lived in St. George, UT, Stephenville and Fort Worth, TX where he loved participating in endurance racing with his horses, working out and fishing. In his later years he lived happily and comfortably with his wife, Joyce, and among family, friends and caregivers in Bristow.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years Joyce; daughter Donna Scully (Brian); son Michael Sparks (Debbie); son David Sparks (Michelle); six grandchildren and his black Lab Miss Molly.
Don was quick witted and will be remembered for his detailed and humorous stories from the past. He'll be missed by his family, friends, acquaintances, caregivers and doctors.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Don Sparks
Kathryn Hutchens
June 16, 2022
Don was never one to think he was better than anyone else because of this profession and status with the Jazz. I remember one time Joyce told me Don wanted to get together with my husband and me before the game to "share a hot dog." I thought she was kidding because Don would be so busy but she assured me he was serious. We had a wonderful time with them. I always think fo them in that way...down to earth, sweet and caring people. I still miss them both and think of them with love in my heart.
Kathryn Hutchens
June 19, 2021
One time the team was playing out of town and Don somehow slipped in his room and ended up with a black eye. He was embarrassed and didn't want to go out and sit on the bench. John Stockton slipped a note under Don's door telling him how much better John would feel if Don was there in case of something happening. This shows just how valuable Don was to the team and his friends. There will never be another "Sparky" and he is sorely missed.
Kathy Lamont-Hutchens
June 10, 2020
Don was the kindest and most sincere person I have ever known. His sense of humor and dedication to those he loved and cared about was beyond compare. His work ethic and helpfulness to his team and management was inspirational. His lovely wife can't even be described. They taught his children and grandchildren the same values they held dear. I love and miss you Joyce more than you could possibly imagine.
Ruth (BR) Korngable
June 22, 2019
Dear Donna, Mike, and David and Family,
Every time that I try to write a condolence, it wipes out. I will try again so that you will know that each of you and Joyce are in my prayers and thoughts. I have so many wonderful memories of the time that Joyce and I worked together. And I remember the many times that Don would call the office and say, "Hey, Babe." I'd say, Don, this isn't Babe; it's BR. He would laugh because he could never tell us apart.I was glad when we all reconnected in Fort Worth after so many years. May the Lord's "peace that passes your understanding" comfort your hearts. Neva, Joyce, and I had so much fun working together and going to lunch in Lubbock. She'd tell me about what was going on with each of you: track with Donna, baseball with Mike, etc., and Baby boy David and GranIz, and Claudia and family! I'll be in touch. Love and prayers to each and all. B.R.
Dixie Peeler
June 20, 2019
Sincerest condolences to the Sparks family. He worked diligently to care for his players and had an infectious laugh. Sparky, you will be missed.
June 16, 2019
Joyce - My Lovely Friend
You have no idea how many times I have tried to track you and Don down. I lost you when you moved from Stephenville and never thought to try Virginia. You two are forever in my heart and I think of you so very often. I am saddened to see about Don's passing and pray everything else is going well for you and your family.
We miss you and love you.
Hutch and Kathy Lamont Hutchens
Terence (TC)) Clark
June 14, 2019
Thank you for being able to be in your world and learn from you! TC.
Rainny Holbrook-Forth
June 13, 2019
I love you Sparky!! You were the kindest, most patient, loving neighbor the Holbrook family children could have asked for! I can see you in my mind's eye mowing your grass, keeping your tan and chatting about basketball with my older brother. You were a positive and wonderful influence on all of us as children. You were loved and appreciated. Rest in peace, dear neighbor!!
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