Warren C. Sparks Sparling, 91

Warren C. Sparks Sparling, 91, passed away early Sunday morning, July 18, 2010, at his home in Kalispell. He was born on June 22, 1919, in Kalispell, to James and Bernice (LaRue) Sparling. Warren attended Kalispell schools, graduating from Flathead County High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Adeline Larson and together they had one son, Robert David Sparling. Warren served in the military as a lieutenant in the Army during World War II. He was a partner in the family business of the American Timber Co., for most of his career. Warren was very involved in Bethlehem Lutheran Church, singing tenor in the choir for many years, and serving as the congregation president. Playing his guitar, he formed and led a boys choir at the church and was a faithful supporter of the outreach in his giving. Another outreach of his giving was to the Lutheran Bible Institute of Issaquah, Wash., where he served on the board. It is now known as the Trinity Lutheran College of Everett, Wash. Warren and Adeline loved to travel and went on many cruises and trips. They loved to fish and spent time with their son, Bob, and his wife, Sharon, salmon fishing on Vancouver Island and also on golfing trips in Oregon. Bob and Sharon went on some of their cruises with them. Their grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought much joy to their lives. Papa Hataburn as he was affectionately called by his family was always teasing, making up stories and singing songs. His families have many wonderful memories of times at the Flathead Lake cabin. Christmas always found Warren with his Santa uniform and a bag of gifts. Adeline passed away suddenly two days after Christmas this past year and life hadn t been so good for him since then. His Home Option s care givers (who have become like family) tried their best to bring joy into his days and we are so thankful to them. We are also grateful to Sharon Askelson for her care of their home and yard and loving care to their needs for 20 years. Warren is survived by his son, Robert Sparling, and wife, Sharon, of Tacoma, Wash.; granddaughter, Kathy Lumsden, and husband, Terry, of Olalla, Wash., and their two children, Jennifer and Thomas; granddaughter, Jill Scherrer, and husband, Scott, of Post Falls, Idaho, and their daughter, Stephanie; grandson, Bruce Sparling, and wife, Cindy, of Tacoma, and their two children, Jack and Isabel. He is also survived by a sister, Ruth Darnell, of Gig Harbor, Wash.; a brother-in-law, Hollister Larson, of Kalispell; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services for Warren will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 24, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church with Pastor Debra Abbott officiating. Preceding the service, a brief graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. for family and friends, at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery. The family suggests memorial gifts be given to the Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp, 603 S. Main St., Kalispell, MT 59901. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Warren s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Warren s tribute wall and offer condolences.