Arthur E. Sparks Jr., 77, of Marysville, died early Thursday morning, Dec. 14, 2017, at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center after a brief illness.
He retired from the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company after 37 years as a package room engineer. A veteran of the Ohio Army National Guard, he was also a member of the Heart of Ohio Fish and Game Association. He enjoyed the outdoors and was often found fishing, hunting or searching for treasures with his metal detector.
He was born on June 23, 1940, in London, the son of the late Arthur E. and Flora Rigsby Sparks Sr. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his siblings, Edith Clemmons, Joy Dillion, Sue O’Ryan and Ernie Sparks.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, the former Marlene A. Scheiderer, whom he married on Oct. 8, 1961, at Marysville First United Methodist Church; children, Dwayne E. (Carrie) Sparks of Marysville and Craig M. (Janice) Sparks of Powell; grandchildren, Chris, Heather, Nathan, Cassandra, Nicholas, Caleb and Braydon Sparks; six great-grandchildren; siblings, Richard (Ginny) Sparks of Marysville, Walter (Vicki) Sparks of London and John (Betty) Sparks of Indian Lake; and many nieces, nephews and beloved friends.
Calling hours will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Ingram Funeral Home, where the Rev. Sara McSword will officiate funeral services at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday. The Union County Honor Guard will perform full military honors.
Contributions may be made in his memory to the donor’s charity of choice in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be expressed at www.ingramfuneralservice.com.