Ralph L. Sparks

Ralph Lee Sparks, 92, of Flora, passed away on Monday, January 9, 2017 at 11 AM at IU Medical Center in Lafayette. He was born December 3, 1924 in Lewisburg. He was the son of Floyd and Rosa (Plank) Sparks. He graduated from Cutler High School in 1943. Ralph served in World War II under General Patton from 1943 - 1945 as survey corporal in the 277th Field Artillery F.A. Battalion and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. After leaving the military he worked for his uncle, Verl Sparks, at Sparks and Jordan for 20 years as an electrician and appliance repair man.

He married the love of his life, Joyce Lee Zook, on December 24, 1949, who survives. In 1961, he and Joyce bought the J-Ann Shop where Joyce ran the store while Ralph kept the books for 42 years. In 1966, he started R. L. Sparks Electric and was Carroll County's most sought after repair man and electrician until he retired in 1989. He and Joyce continued to run and operate the J-Ann Shop until it sold in 2003.

Ralph enjoyed golfing, fishing, mushroom hunting and snowmobiling, and was an avid woodcutter. His love was spending time with his family, children and grandchildren. He was treasurer of American Legion post 222 for 50 years, a mason at the Masonic Lodge, member of the Scottish Rite, and coach of the Little League Indians for five years. Ralph was a member of the Flora United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce; daughter, Teresa (Matt) Hodgdon, of Saint Simons Island, GA; son Brad (Lisa) Sparks, of Carmel; special ""daughter"" Jane Kroegher, of Lafayette, IN; and grandchildren, Ryan and Kari Hodgdon, Weston and Danielle Sparks, and Lindsay, Michael and Marissa (Kroegher).

Preceding him in death, along with his parents, are his three brothers, John, Floyd Jr., and Estel Perry Sparks; and one sister, Marlyn Hinkle. All four brothers served in World War II with Floyd Jr. giving his life in France.

A funeral service honoring his life will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, January 14, 2017 at the Flora United Methodist Church, with visitation starting at 10:30 AM. Pastor Jeff Landon will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Lawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Flora United Methodist Church or a charity of one's choice. Share memories and condolences online at www.gendafuneralhome.com.  Arrangements are entrusted to Genda Funeral Home Reinke Chapel in Flora.