Ronnie Sparks

Ronnie Lee Sparks, 57, of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, died January 26, 2010, at Siloam Springs Memorial Hospital, Siloam Springs, Arkansas. Born March 20, 1952, in Hoisington, Kansas, he was the son of Charlie Sparks and Joyce Reynolds Sparks. He was the oldest living of nine children and lived most of his adult life in Northwest Arkansas. He was a surveyor in the early 70’s and was manager of Dixieland Lanes from the 70’s through the early 80’s. He opened the first Car-mart of Siloam Springs in 1983, and in 2005, he opened his own car lot, Mo Motor Company, where he remained until the time of his death. He was an avid bowler for many years, as well as a pool player and golfer. He married Diane Ryan on March 17, 2000, in Gravette, Arkansas. He loved people. Ron never knew a stranger. If someone wanted to talk he was there to listen, give advice or just be a shoulder to lean on. He enjoyed spending time with his granddaughters, in the swimming pool, riding their horses or driving around on four wheelers or golf cart. He loved taking vacations with his family or just having everyone over for a BBQ and supported the Arkansas Razorbacks. Ronnie was preceded in death by his father and mother; one brother; and two nephews. Survivors include his wife Diane of the home; one son, Randy Sparks and wife Karen of Bentonville, Arkansas; one daughter, Melanie Meridith and husband Bryan of Colcord, Oklahoma; three granddaughters; Chelsi and Cassidy Sparks of Bentonville, Arkansas, and Malorie Meridith of Colcord, Oklahoma; one sister-in-law, Maureen Ryan and husband Scott Hagge, of Woodridge, Illinois; five brothers, Gary Sparks of Elkins, Arkansas, Chuck Sparks of Newcastle, Texas, Kenneth Sparks of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, Brian Sparks of Yakima, Washington, and Rodney Sparks of Rogers, Arkansas; three sisters, Kathy Hamblin of Azle, Texas, Dixie Sparks of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, and Patty Sparks of Weatherford, Texas. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 1, 2010, at Wasson Memorial Chapel, Siloam Springs, Arkansas. Visitation will be 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.,. Sunday, January 31, 2010, at Wasson Funeral Home, Siloam Springs, Arkansas. Because Ron loved his animals, the family is requesting that, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Siloam Springs Veterinary Clinic, 504 West Tulsa, Siloam Springs, Arkansas 72761. Arrangements are under the direction of Wasson Funeral Home, Siloam Springs, Arkansas.

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Ronnie Sparks

March 20, 1952 - January 26, 2010