Sparks, James 1831-1921

SPARKS, FROST, SLOAN, SKEELS, MCDONALD

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 8/3/2012 at 08:49:39

The Grinnell (IA) Herald; Jan. 21, 1921

JAMES SPARKS

James Sparks, one of Grinnell's pioneers died Wednesday night at his home on his farm south of this city, aged 89 years, 9 months and 19 days. Funeral services conducted by Rev. W.W. Woodburn were held this afternoon at two o'clock at the Upper Blue Point church, and burial was made in the Blue Point cemetery, beside his wife who died over seventeen years ago.

Mr. Sparks was born at Spearville, Ky., March 20, 1831. many years later, he moved to Indiana where he was married. He made his home there until 1870 and there his nine children were born. He drove with his wife and family to Iowa in 1870 and settled on the farm which he owned at the time of his death. All of his five sons and four daughters survive him and were present at the funeral services.

Of his five sons, Barton and Crawford live in this community. Andrew Sparks lives in Franklin, Indiana and William, in Marshalltown. Edward, the oldest son, will take charge of the home place. Of the daughters, Mrs. Abertha Frost and Mrs. Fannie Sloan reside here. Mrs. Louine Skeels lives in Des Moines and Mrs. Catherine McDonald of Montana has been caring for her father during the past year.

Mr. Sparks was known as a man of sterling character and rugged honesty, and his memory will long live among his friends in the community.