Byron Lee Sparber

SPARBER, BYRON LEE, 86, passed away August 28, 2018 at Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, Florida. Byron was born August 19, 1932 in Gary, Indiana to Frank Sparber, an attorney and judge, and his wife Marian. While attending law school at the University of Michigan, Byron lost his right leg to cancer at age 23 but forged ahead and lived an active and fulfilled life. He became an accomplished snow skier, scuba diver and winning racquetball player.

Byron applied the same tenacity to his academic, legal and business endeavors. He received his undergraduate degree in 1954, followed by a degree in law and MBA in 1957, all from the University of Michigan. He was a proud Michigan Alum. He was also a CPA in Indiana. After law school graduation, he went to Washington, D.C., where he worked as an attorney for the US Tax Court. Eventually settling in Miami, Byron established a reputation for insightful and innovative legal analysis in the areas of taxation, corporate law and business matters. He published numerous articles in state and national publications, lectured throughout the US and was lead editor of the Southeast Transaction Guide. His legal skill and reputation attracted talented lawyers. Byron was instrumental in growing a law firm which became known as Sparber, Shevin, Shapo, Heilbronner and Book, P.A. He prided himself on hiring the brightest and best, which was evident in the cumulative successes of the group. To this day, many who passed through such law firm maintain a special bond amongst them, and regard Byron as someone who provided insight, guidance and example.

Byron strived to spend time enjoying nature and open spaces. His love for the ocean ultimately led him and his wife Jackie to retire in the Florida Keys. They shared their love of diving and married during one of their dive adventures in the South Pacific.

He was a long-time dedicated supporter of Mount Sinai Medical Center, where he was a Founder and Life Trustee, and served on numerous executive committees. He also devoted his time and effort serving on many Boards of charitable and community organizations.

Byron was predeceased by his parents Frank and Marian, his sister Gloria Rosen, his son Ronald “Butch” Sparber, the bravest and toughest boy in the world, and his daughter-in-law, Monica Sparber.

Byron shared his life with and is survived by his wife and co-adventurer Jackie Ford Sparber, his first wife and mother of his children, Sandra Sparber Friedman, daughter Terri Sparber Bukacheski and son Michael Samuel Sparber (Jacqueline), his grandchildren Aaron, Danielle, Austin and Mia, his niece Kim Rosen and nephew Gary Rosen, and his grandnephew Max Rosen.

The family extends their special thanks and gratitude to Judi Bolanos, Byron’s former secretary, and to Dr. Peter Segall and his staff for their commitment to Byron’s care.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday September 16th commencing at 2 PM at Riverside Gordon Memorial Chapel at Mt. Nebo, 5900 SW 77th Avenue, Miami 33143, followed at the same location by a reception of family and friends through 7 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lauren’s Kids (LaurensKids.org), Diveheart or a charity of your choice.