CW3 David Henry “Dave” Sparks, US Army Ret., 84, of Winamac, went home to be with Lord on Saturday, January 24, 2026.
He passed away at the Franciscan Health Hospital in Lafayette, IN.
Dave was born on December 18, 1941 in Lawton, IN to the late Henry Willard and Annabelle (Bitterling) Sparks. He attended Monterey High School through the 11th grade before joining US Army.
Dave served his country with distinction in Vietnam and was awarded a Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal 2d Award, Army Commendation Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Device, Presidential Unit Citation, Army Service Ribbon, and an Overseas Service Ribbon as well as an Expert .45 Cal Pistol Badge, Expert M14 Rifle Badge, and a Carbine Marksman Badge. In 1981, Dave retired from the US Military after serving over 20 years which included meritorious war service and a prestigious career in military intelligence. He then went on to have a successful civilian career in aerospace and retired from Northrop Corporation in Pico Rivera, CA.
On February 1, 1994, Dave married the love of his life Carol Jean (Pettit) Reed in Las Vegas, NV. They enjoyed spending time together, especially cooking. Dave always supported Carol in the numerous activities she hosted at the hospital. Carol passed away on March 15, 2016.
Dave spent most of his life moving around the country with his military assignments before landing in California in 1981. In 2001, he retired to Winamac. He enjoyed the quietness of a small town and supported the local community. He served several years on the Winamac Board of Zoning Appeals.
Anyone who knew Dave will remember that he raised and spoiled his dogs as if they were his own children. More than anything, Dave loved his family very much and was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He will be deeply missed.
He is survived by:
David James (wife: Alicia) Sparks, Wilmington, CA Son
Scott (wife: Heather) Meyer, Long Beach, CA Step Son
Sherry (husband: Robert) Keith, Hurst, TX Step Daughter
Cara (husband: Matt) Ansis, Chicago, IL Step Daughter
4 Grandsons
7 Step Grandchildren
Douglas (wife: Catherine) Sparks, Winamac, IN Brother
Several Nephews and their families
Preceded in death by:
Henry W. and Annabelle (Bitterling) Sparks, Parents
Carol Jean (Pettit) Sparks, Wife
Susann Lynn Sparks, Daughter
Deanna (husband: Dennis) Pletka, Sister
Daniel Sparks, Brother
Graveside Services with Military Honors will be held 1:00 PM EST Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at Winamac Cemetery (McKinley Addition) in Winamac, IN.
Burial will take place at Winamac Cemetery (McKinley Addition) in Winamac, IN.
In Lieu of Flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to Pulaski Animal Center or Pulaski County Human Services.
Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.
