Roy Sparks, 87 of Hudson passed away at 4:25 PM on Wednesday August 9, 2017 at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington.  Roy was born on October 5, 1929 in Bloomington to Leland and Helen Wood Sparks. He married Joanne Norman on February 7, 1954 in Arrowsmith. She survives. He is also survived by three sons Steve (Nancy) Sparks, Sherwood, AR, Tom (Peggy) Sparks, Hudson and Dale Sparks, Hudson (Julie Eades), Bloomington; seven grandchildren, Michael (Becky) Sparks, Shannon (Nathan) Moreland, Melanie (Eric) Harrison, Amanda (Paul) Baxter, Eric Sparks, Courtney Sparks (Troy Weikle), Brian Sparks (Bre Baker), twelve great-grandchildren and one sister Mary Hathaway of Hudson. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister Doris Slaughter.  Roy proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. He later owned and operated Sparks Fertilizer in Hudson for more than twenty-five years, retiring in 1992. He was a member of the Hudson History Club, enjoyed gardening, camping and the outdoors. He especially loved his family and visiting with friends.

There will be a graveside service for Roy on Saturday August 19, 2017 at 10 AM at Hudson Township Cemetery in Hudson. Deacon Gayle Cyrulik will officiate. Military rites will be performed by Bloomington – Normal American Legion Honor Guard. There will also be a Celebration of Life at the Hudson Town Hall beginning at 11:30 am. Beck Memorial Home in Bloomington is handling arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Hudson Fire and Rescue and Hudson Library History Room.