Jim I. Sparks

James "Jim" Sparks, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away on May 16, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply. Born on August 30, 1943, in Springfield to Ira and Arlene Sparks, Jim lived a full and joyful life marked by hard work, deep relationships, and a passion for the outdoors.
Jim spent his younger years at the family cabin on Bull Shoals Lake, where he cultivated a lifelong love of fishing, boating, skiing, and adventure. He learned the art of boat repair at his father's shop and became a natural problem-solver-there was nothing Jim couldn't fix with a level and a roll of duct tape. Every project, in his eyes, was just another problem to solve.
Gifted in mathematics, Jim earned a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Missouri-Rolla (now Missouri S&T). On June 5, 1965, he married the love of his life, Rosemary Drennen, at King's Way United Methodist Church, where they remained dedicated members for over 50 years.
Jim dedicated 43 years of his career to engineering and production at Dayco, where he played a key role in opening plants in South Carolina, Italy, and Scotland. His time in Scotland was especially memorable, as it allowed his family to be with him to immerse themselves in a new culture together.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jim had a heart for service. He served on the board of the American Heart Association and co-chaired their annual fundraising auction for many years.
Jim was truly happiest on the water - waterskiing, fishing, and sharing his love for the lake with his children and grandchildren. He took joy in teaching the next generation to ski, laughing as he made donuts in the boat, making big waves to knock them off their tubes.
Jim also had a deep love for deer hunting, especially the annual trips to Cameron, MO. These outings were filled with tradition, laughter, and connection, as he bonded with his grandsons, sons-in-law, brother, and extended family.
With an infectious laugh and a ready smile, Jim was a constant source of encouragement and joy. He never missed an opportunity to cheer on his grandchildren in their sports and activities-always their proudest and loudest fan.
Jim is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Rosemary Sparks; his brother Jack Sparks; and his sisters Caroline Hensley and Mary Strothkamp. He leaves behind his daughters Stephanie Sheridan (Jim) and Heather Heuston (Tom); and four cherished grandchildren: Courtney LeCluyse (Wilson), Matt Sheridan, Rex Heuston, and Lance Heuston.
He will be remembered for his boundless enthusiasm, generous heart, and the legacy of love and adventure he leaves behind.
A Visitation will be held on Tuesday May 27th, 2025, from 6-8pm. The funeral will be on Wednesday, May 28th at 1:00pm. at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home 1947 E. Seminole St. Springfield, MO 65804.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org