James M. Sparks' Obituary
James M. Sparks was born on March 23, 1945 in Portland, Oregon to Al & Mary Keeler Sparks.
He died at his home in St. Helens on April 25, 2008 at the age of 63.
James was educated and graduated from St. Helens High School in 1963. He has lived all of his life in St. Helens.
He married Bernice Woodford on August 26, 1967 also in St. Helens.
James worked for Friesen Lumber of 34 years until it sold to Stimpson Lumber, continued to work there for 3 more years until it closed. He was in the Army National Guard for 7 years.
Early on he had attended Yankton Baptist Church and in high school he was active in the 4-H. In the 80's & 90's his enjoyments included street stock race car driving. He was awarded the sportsman of the year a number of times and street stock driver #1 twice.
Other interest included gardening, fishing, and for 41 1/2 years they saved, fed and found home for many homeless animals.
Survivors include: Wife Bernice Sparks of St. Helens; Daughters & Sons-in-laws: Connie St. Clair-Matthews Billof Deer Island; Carol Crosby Dwayneof St. Helens; 4 older sisters and families: Gloria, Sylvia, Evey, JoAnn; 1 granddaughter: Sherry Jean Grau; numerous nieces & nephews.
Private family service
on-line condolences may be made to the family at columbiafh.com
Columbia Funeral Home-Directors
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