James Thomas Sparks

Born in Missoula, Montana, to parents Tyler Thomas and Lucinda Markle Sparks. 

James, “Jim” was a recognized member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe of the Flathead Nation. He was also a WWII Army Veteran. Jim was stationed in South America on Curacao Island in 1943. He was awarded a handful of recognitions during his time in the service. He was honorably discharged in 1945 at Fort Douglas in Utah.  This is where he met his soon-to-be wife, Bernice Lois Kapp. They married in 1946 and started their amazing life together.   

Jim worked and later retired from the Department of Defense in Ogden. He enjoyed all the things 99 years of life had to offer, especially his family and the outdoors. He played basketball, loved to golf, and bowl. He had a brilliant mind and enjoyed socializing.

Together Jim and Bernice had three children and a life full of adventure. When he wasn’t busy putting together recreation leagues, hunting and fishing, he helped maintain and oversee the Ben Lomond Golf Course. He and Bernice also spent a lot of time in Sun City West, Arizona and Garden City, UT. And in true Jim fashion, he was heavily involved with courses there too. He was loved by all that knew him, and his memory will be forever cherished. 

Jim is survived by his daughter, Cindy Godfrey of Pleasant View, UT; son, Lance (Michele) Sparks of Perry, Utah; daughter-in-law, Vicki Sparks of Green River, Wyoming; sister-in-law, Florene Parke of Utah; sister-in-law, Mary Kathy Sparks of Montana; six grandchildren, Brandy (Randy), Tyler (Brandie), Amanda (Dusty), Zane, Skyler (Jacque), and Jayce (Trista); 14 great-grandchildren; countless nieces, nephews, and cousins.   

Jim was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife, Bernice Lois Sparks; son, Gary Thomas Sparks; son-in-law, Dennis Godfrey; grandson, Landon Sparks; his parents; brother, Calvin Robert Sparks; half-brother, David Gary Sparks; and five additional siblings. 

Graveside services will be held on Friday, April 5, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Lindquist’s Washington Heights Memorial Park, 4500 Washington Blvd.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the George E Wahlen Ogden Veterans Home.