Vanzel R. Sparks

Vanzel (Van) R Sparks Sr (June 20, 1947) passed on July 8, 2022. He was 75 years young. He is proceeded in death by his parents Elzie and Helena Sparks, Wife Ella V Sparks, and daughter Shannon M Sparks. He is survived by his brother Marcel Sparks and Sister Marsha D Sparks. Children Vanzel R Sparks Jr, Andrew S Cox, Lena E Sloan, and Amy Perkins. Grandchildren Amber, Damien, Cheyenne, Elzie, Lucy, Richard, Jesse, Brianna, Elizabeth, Samuel, Angela, Amanda, Hunter, Victoria, Saharra, Jordan, Raymond, Jacob, Cherokee, and Joey; as well as six great-grandchildren.

Van grew up in Fairborn, Ohio. He was a funny man; his goal was to make people laugh and be cheerful. He drove long haul truck for over 44 years. Served in the U.S. Army. Not going to sugar coat it, he told you how it was. He was an avid NHRA Fan, and drove a drag car for many years. He loved working on race cars. He will be missed. "Don't mourn me when I'm gone, Celebrate my life."

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Newcomer North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Road, Dayton, to help cover funeral costs.

To share a memory of Van, or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.