Rex Sparks

Rex Wilson Sparks "SPARKY" age 73, of St. Louis, MI passed away Monday, August 14, 2017 at Mid-Michigan Medical Center - Gratiot.

Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes St. Louis, MI, on Friday, August 18, 2017 at 11:00 A.M., with Dr. Keith Wise officiating.  Burial will take place at Ridgelawn Cemetery, Breckenridge, MI.  Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 17, 2017 from 2-8 P.M. with family present from 2-4 & 6-8 P.M. at the funeral home.

Rex was born in Alma, MI on July 17, 1944, the son of Homer and Norma (Robinson) Sparks.  He attended Ithaca Public Schools and lived most of his life in the St. Louis area.  Rex married Shirley Ann Nieman on November 13, 1965 in St. Louis, MI.

Rex owned and operated Rowley and Church Service Station in St. Louis for over 20 years.  In his early years, he owned and operated his own semi, and did masonry work.  After retirement, he loved to tinker in his garage and spend time with his granddaughters and great grandson.

Rex is survived by his children; Shelley and Mike Fairchild of St. Louis, Troy and Melanie Sparks of Riverdale, 3 granddaughters; Kristina  Fairchild and Gene Hilliard of Shepherd, Melissa Sparks and Carlos Suarez of Riverdale, Shelby Sparks of Riverdale, and great grandson Julian Suarez of Riverdale.  He is also survived by his sister Carol Drexler of St. Louis, and his wife's siblings; Ernest "Sonny" and Joyce Nieman of Alma, Irene Clark of Las Vegas, NV, James and Debbie Nieman of Gould City; and many nieces and nephews.  Rex was preceded in death by his wife Shirley in 2009, parents; Homer Sparks and Norma (Bob) Rooks, and siblings; Betty Otto, Jerry Sparks, and Kenneth Sparks.

Memorials may be made to the family. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, MI.