Robert E. Sparkes, Jr.'s Obituary
Robert E. Sparkes, Jr. “Sparky”, 69, of Syracuse passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2019 after a long courageous battle with leukemia. He was surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Syracuse and graduated from West Genesee High School in 1967. Bob was a self-employed tile installer who took great pride in his work. Bob met the love of his life Donna and they were married for 43 years. Some of his best days were spent walleye fishing on Oneida Lake and salmon fishing on Lake Ontario. He enjoyed boating, snowmobiling, golfing, hunting, and spending time with family and friends. He was a huge fan of the New York Yankees, the Buffalo Bills, and his grandkid’s sports teams.
He was predeceased by his parents, Robert E., Sr. and Emilienne Sparkes, and son-in-law, Bryan Rothermel.
Bob is survived by his wife, Donna (Wilson) Sparkes; his four children, Kimberly (Robert) Abbott, Michelle (Jamie) Jaeger, Robert Sparkes III, and Chantal Rothermel; his six grandchildren, Robby, Kaitlyn, Steven, Jared, Kayleigh, and Emilie; his sister, Chantal (Sigmund) Rogalia; brother-in-law, Mark (Heidi) Hayward; his grand dogs, Sheba and Emery; a nephew, two nieces and several cousins.
A Funeral Mass in celebration of Robert’s life will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at St. Michael’s Church, 4782 West Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse, NY. Burial will follow in Onondaga Valley Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 pm on Monday, April 15, 2019 at THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY.
Captain Bob, enjoy your journey on the waves in Heaven.
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?
