Fred James Sparks

Fred James Sparks of Redding, California passed away on February 20, 2025 surrounded by loved ones. Fred was born in Fayetteville, Arkansas on December 22, 1937, the son of Paige and Noble Sparks. Fred was preceded in death by his parents as well as many of his lifelong high school buddies, Delbert, Louie, Don, and Nick. One of Fred’s greatest legacies is the loving care he provided to others, most notably his mother who remained in his care in her later years. He affectionately called her “Mommy.” Fred is survived by his loving wife, Ethel Sparks, her children Rick Salyer, Don Salyer(Maria), Brenda Lamph(Todd), Bob Salyer(Bonnie), his nephew Billy Dollar(Cheryl), grandchildren(Eileen, Samantha, Emili, Bradley, Sean, Madison), dear friend, Joan Salyer, and siblings Clarence Sparks, Julia Fehrs, and Doris Sparks.

Fred’s early years were marked with frequent moves that led to an interrupted education. He attended four different schools a year over seven consecutive years. As a young boy, he was often pulled from school to pick cotton, beans, and potatoes to help the family. His mother faithfully got him to Sunday school, and he was saved during his second grade school year. Fred moved to Buena Park in 1955 where he learned his trade as a tool and die maker from his high school shop teacher. During his high school years, he met his lifelong buddies Delbert, Louie, Don, Nick, and AG. Fred loved to share the funny stories of the pranks and antics of their little gang which got good laughs, ,especially from him. Fred maintained loyal relationships with each of these guys throughout the years. He and Nick were joined at the hip ever since they struck up a friendship in high school gym class. Fred was active in the Navy from 1960-1962, and spent time on Midway Island.

During the 70s and early 80’s, Fred lived in Rialto and Riverside during which time he worked as a tool and die maker in Orange County, and helped raise his nephew, Bill Dollar. Fred’s reconnection with Billy was among the greatest blessings in the second half of his life. In 1985, Fred and Ethel married, and soon after moved to Redding where they built a wonderful life together at their perfect home on Terrace Drive. At this home, they welcomed family and friends for over 30 years, and it was where the grandkids were spoiled, showered with love, and gained cherished memories with Grandpa Freddie(Pa) and Grammie. His final years were spent in their cozy Shasta Hills Estate home.

Fred was known by many names by his loved ones. Among the favored ones was Bigg Dogg. This is quite a fitting name for this humble but very accomplished gentleman. He began his career as a tool and die maker at age 20, and he worked in this trade for 52 years. He worked for many different companies over the years and had several tools patented by the U.S. government. He spoke with great pride about his years of service at Steelcase in Orange County, and he continued to use his talents in tool and die at Skyway and Champion in Redding. Freddie was an artisan who was gifted in woodworking, and created numerous works of “heart” for family and friends throughout the years Fred was able to complete beautiful charcuterie boards for his kids and grandkids before his passing. He was also a master gardener.

Above all, Uncle Fred, Freddie, Grandpa Freddie, Pa, Bigg Dogg will be remembered as a gentle, quiet, and giving soul who loved “ The Fat Lady” and doted on his family. He is greatly missed, but we'll see him in Glory.”