Christine Sparks

1951 – 2010

Christine Sparks, our loving wife, mom, grandma, sister, aunt and friend, passed away on March 9, 2010. She died following an 18-month battle with cancer, with her devoted husband, children and sister by her side. Her strength and grace were inspiring to all who knew her.

Chris was born May 28, 1951, in Linton, Indiana, to William and Barbara Alkire, who she devotedly cared for in their ailing years. She graduated from Granger High School in 1969, where she competed in gymnastics and expanded her love for art. She began working at Hercules/ATK in 1978 and retired in 2009, as a respected supervisor. Where she made many close friends. She married her sweetheart, Joe Sparks, on June 20, 1981. Joe and Chris shared a beautiful life full of love and happy memories with their family in Magna, Utah. They spoke a special language all their own! She enjoyed bowling, painting, dancing, movies and hosting family gatherings.

Chris loved her family more than anything and they loved her in return. Her children and grandchildren were her pride and joy. She felt immeasurable gratitude for her husband who cared for her with loving warmth and humor, day and night throughout her struggle. Chris is survived by her husband, Joe; children: Kim (Stan), Debbie (Brett), Bill (Tammie), Ryan (Amy); sister Jan (Val); nine beautiful grandchildren; loving nephews and in-laws, and her furry princess, Gracie. She is preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 15, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. Viewings will be held Sunday, March 14, from 5-7 p.m. and Monday, March 15, from 10-11 a.m. All services will be held at Valley View Funeral Home, 4335 West 4100 South, with interment at Valley View Memorial Park.

The family wishes to thank the Huntsman Cancer Institute, with special thanks to Dr. Ackerly and LeAnn Clark, RN. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Huntsman Cancer Foundation, in memory of Christine Sparks. (www.huntsmancancerfoundation.org)

Arrangements under the direction of Valley View Memorial Park & Funeral Home, West Valley City, UT.