Charles E. Sparks (84) was called home in the morning hours of February 21st 2026 after a brief battle with cancer.
Charlie or Chuck, as he was known to most, was born August 23, 1941 in Crandon, Wisconsin to parents Lora and Rose (Ory) Sparks. He grew up one of eight children, six boys and two girls, working on the family homestead. It was here that he developed a love for all things outdoors. Charlie was an avid hunter and enjoyed fishing, but what he loved most was feeding his animals. Deer would come to eat right out of his hand. Charlie also had a love for dogs, having several throughout his life, but his buddy Rascal was beyond special to him. Beyond the love for his animals, was even more love for his family. He was a family man through and through, even to those that were not blood. He welcomed all to his favorite place, Camp. Acquired in 1990 as a hunting shack, was Charlie’s pride and joy, “Lucky Chucky’s Castle” or “Camp" in the upper peninsula. Over the years improvements were made, much by Charlie’s own hands, to what stands today. A beautiful, peaceful place full of so much love and many beautiful memories he made with his family and friends.
Such a kind, intelligent soul that taught others all he knew, many remember their time with him in the construction industry. After serving in the US Army, Charlie worked several blue collar jobs before starting his own company, C. Sparks and Associates. His company covered a wide range of construction services in the Milwaukee area. Eventually, he took employment with Fairbanks Scales and started Sparks Contractors in Gaastra, MI. He worked tirelessly for many years before retiring in the Northwoods, which is undoubtedly where he always wanted to be. Charlie was also incredibly talented and artistic. He spent his retirement making art, furniture and more out of horseshoes and lumber he milled from “Camp". Nothing made him happier than to share his vision with the world; everyone loved it and he loved the opportunity to meet new people and chat over a cup of coffee. He also brought others ideas to life through curated works of art.
Charlie was such a kind, gentle, loving, giving, strong, smart, hardworking man and that doesn’t even begin to describe his true character. He was a hero in so many eyes and will be incredibly missed.
Charlie is preceded in death by his parents, Lora and Rose Sparks. Brothers, Les Sparks, Willie Sparks, Arnie Sparks and sister, Alice (Lolly) Gryczkowski
Family he leaves behind to treasure his memory, his beloved and cherished son, Loren Sparks, daughter-in-law, Dori Sparks, Papa's Girl and granddaughter, Laurelle Sparks Damrow, Little Buddy & grandson, Devon Sparks, Grandson-in-law, Steven Damrow. Sister, Shirley Sparks, Brothers, Donnie (Becky) Sparks & Robert Sparks. Life partner Patricia Presti, Bonus daughters, Sue Taylor & Sandra Presti. Bonus grandsons, Taylor Presti & Austin Taylor. Bonus Granddaughter, Kaitlyn (Joe) Cunningham and bonus great-granddaughter, Phoenix Cunningham as well as many more extended family and friends.
Per Charlie’s wishes, a formal funeral will not be held. Instead, Charlie will be cremated and a celebration of his life will be held around father’s day. Further details to come.
