Ernest G. “Ernie” Sparks, 73, of Marysville, died early Wednesday morning, May 9, 2018, at his residence surrounded by his loving family, after months of failing health.
He retired from General Industries after 26 years as a plant foreman. In his earlier years, he enjoyed spending time fishing and being outdoors. He also enjoyed growing up in Kentucky and the many years visiting his friends there after moving to Ohio. He also enjoyed bluegrass and gospel music.
He never knew a stranger and his personality could light up a room. A dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, his children and his grandbabies were the true joys of his life.
He was born Sept. 29, 1944, in Paintsville, Kentucky, to the late Hollie and Edith LeMaster Sparks. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his sister, Juanita Sparks.
He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 40 years, Shirley Guisinger, whom he married Nov. 4, 1978, in Marysville; children, Missy Guy, Darran (Liberty) Conley and James (Yvonne) Conley; grandchildren, Kyle (Carolyn) Conley, Lucas, Ashlynn and Isabelle Conley, Jered (Ashley) Guy, Tyler (Celeste) Guy, Tiffany Daum, Cheyenne Roshlynn and Margie Brukhammer; 12 great-grandchildren; brother, Benny Sparks; stepmother, Wanda Bowen Sparks; and numerous extended family members and friends.
Calling hours will held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday at Ingram Funeral Home. The Rev. Jeremy Stout will officiate funeral services at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Milford Center Cemetery with Kyle Conley, Lucas Conley, Tyler Guy, Jered Guy, Frank LeMaster and Matt Hudnall serving as pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Children’s Heart Foundation or to the Make a Wish Foundation, in honor of his grandchildren, in care of the funeral home.
Condolences may be expressed at www.ingramfuneralservice.com.