Russell Sparks

POLKVILLE-Russell Wayne Sparks, 93, went to be with our Lord and Savior on February 22, 2022, surrounded by family and friends in Shelby, NC where he currently resided. He was born on February 1, 1929 to parents Floyd (Sr.) and Louise Sparks. Russell graduated from St. Anthony High School and married the love of his life, Betty Louise Duffy on March 6, 1948 who preceded him in death on August 25, 2013. He was born into a family of ten children and was predeceased by his parents (Floyd & Louise), and his siblings, James Sparks, Floyd Sparks Jr., Roger Sparks, Maxine Mohr, Donald Sparks, and Johnny Sparks.

Russell is survived by his sisters, Virginia Clemons, Nola German and Joanne Benner; five children, Lynne Sparks, Deborah Hughes, Teresa (Steve) Waln, Thomas Sparks and Lisa (Slaman) Dean, along with ten grandchildren and twenty-three great grandchildren.

Russell spent his career farming and working for Collins Radio/Rockwell International in Cedar Rapids, Iowa until his retirement. After he retired, he became a licensed real estate agent and then worked various contract jobs at nuclear facilities. In later years his greatest joy was time spent with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all.

Graveside services to be held in Clemons, Iowa will be announced at a later date.