Patsy Sparks
1939 - 2020
Patsy Edith Sparks (nee Evanson), beloved wife of John Sparks, left peacefully with John by her side on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 at the age of 80 years.
As a result of the restrictions regarding COVID-19, and the government’s recommendations, a private visitation was held at Southland Funeral Chapel on Friday, May 1, 2020. A private burial service was held at the Taber Memorial Garden on Saturday, May 2, 2020 at 10:00 A.M.
Patsy is survived by her children Randy (Diane) Sparks, Glen (Joanne) Sparks and Penny (Steve) Swarbrick all of Taber; grandchildren Amber (Evan), Clay (Devany), Kitawna, Kandice (Domenic), Kodi (Kym), Jera (Ben), Kaylee (Keith) and Cole; great grandchildren Kwynn, Ella, Corban, Amira, Aurora, Tatum and Rowan. She is also survived by her sisters Janet Hill, Joan (Wayne) Pierson, Sally (Lynn) Ferguson; brother Evan (Jackie) Evanson; sisters-in-law Pat Sparks and Elaine Malinsky; brothers-in-law Phil Wallbank and Bob (Margaret) Sparks as well as many nieces, nephews and friends that were so important to her.
She was predeceased by her granddaughter Tessa Sparks; parents Harold and Stella Evanson; sister Bonnie Wallbank; in-laws Wilfred and Ella Sparks; brothers-in-law Ron Hill, Ed Sparks and George Malinsky; sister-in-law Joanne Lysohirka and niece Robin.
How does one describe a woman as loved as Mom. We pray that our simple words capture the essence of her remarkable spirit. Loving, giving, devoted, gracious, loyal, joyful, thoughtful, caring and tender. Small words to describe a woman whose impact was larger than life. She was our rock, our center and our core. Mom carried us through when we could not see our way. She loved us deeply and unconditionally. She cherished our love and applauded our accomplishments no matter how small.
Mom was born on November 21, 1939 in Taber, the eldest of six children. She grew up on the family farm southwest of Taber. Mom attended Barnwell School and WR Myers High School in Taber. Patsy and her siblings had lots of fun growing up and having cousins that lived just down the road was a real asset. Working in the field and swimming in the canal were some of the highlights. Mom and Dad married when mom was only sixteen and they had three children by the time she was nineteen. She lived in Taber then Jefferson, eventually moving back to Taber where she has resided until the time of her passing. She was an awesome housewife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt. Hardworking in the home and in the yard. Mom and dad were always together. She was always looking for a reason to be surrounded by her family. Be it a family Halloween party, BBQ, Christmas Eve, Easter egg hunts or just any occasion to have family out. Memories forever cherished and remembered. Mom was a great example to all her family and friends and was respected and loved by all who knew her.
Mom’s relationship with her Heavenly Father was very important and dear to her. “Families Are Forever” was always at the forefront of her life. She held many positions within the church from teaching Primary, Sunday School, Mutual, Gospel Doctrine, Teacher Development and Seminary. She was also a pianist, organist, chorister in the Ward and Stake, Spiritual Living teacher, Homemaking Chairman and Serving Chairman as well as holding President positions in Young Woman’s and Relief Society as well as councillor positions. Mom held these position while in Jefferson and the various Wards in the Taber Stake. Mom often expressed how she enjoyed these positions and especially when she was in the Young Woman’s. She has many special friends that she truly loved and they know who they are.
The family would like to express their gratitude and thanks for the care given to mom over the past two years at the Taber Hospital Active Care, St. Michael’s in Lethbridge; Linden View (special staff) as well as the nurses and staff at Taber Hospital Extended Care (special staff that took such good care of mom until the end). We love you all.