Joseph "Joe" David Sparks Jr., age 55, of South Whitley, Indiana passed away on Sunday, May 21, 2023. He was born October 31, 1967 to the late Joseph D. Sparks and Hilda Marie Richardson. Joe graduated South Side High School and following graduation, began his career as an auto mechanic and owner of J&S Automotive. In 2021, he began a new career with Wayne Asphalt. He was an avid outdoorsman that loved camping and fishing, auto racing, but cherished his time with family the most. Joe is survived by his children, Crystal (Stephen) Combs, Cameron Marcum, Heather (Lisa) Boodt, Courtney (Zachary) Cooper, and Jodie Sparks; seven grandchildren; siblings, Melinda (James) Cox, Lorrie Richardson, Larry (Paula) Richardson, William (Donna) Richardson, Gary Richardson, and Carl (Regina) Richardson; step-mother, Betty Sparks; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings, Lisa Ann Claymiller, Ronnie Joe Sparks, Bruce David Sparks, Carol Sue Richardson, Barbara Ann Richardson, Beverly Joyce Putt, Sharon Kay Saylor and Neal Lynn Richardson. Funeral Service is 11:00 am Saturday, June 3 at Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services - Mungovan Chapel, 2114 S Calhoun Street, Fort Wayne with calling one hour prior. Friends and family will also be received on Friday, June 2 from 2:00-4:00 PM and 6:00-8:00 PM at the funeral home. Interment at Prairie Grove Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be directed to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana or to the family.
