Patricia Ann Sparks, 69, of Shoshone, died Sunday, Sept. 23, 2007, at the St. Luke's Hospital in Twin Falls after a long bout with cancer. She was born June 28, 1938, in Hailey to Cleo and Sibylle Peterson - the oldest of eight children.
She married Larry Sparks on Dec. 4, 1961. Trish was a long-time member of the Friendly Neighbor Club and the Progressive Club in Carey where she enjoyed quilting and laughing with friends. She had a great appreciation for God's creation and loved the outdoors. Many of her poems reflect that love.
Trish moved to Shoshone in 1998, and her husband Larry became Pastor of the First Baptist Church there. Trish was an active member and taught Sunday School classes and ministered to people of all ages. She was happiest when she was walking close to God.
Trish also enjoyed her time with friends at the Shoshone Senior Center. Trish loved people and had a gift for making everyone feel special. She will be remembered for her wholehearted laugh, her keen sense of humor and her love for life.
Trish enjoyed baking her famous apple pies for birthdays. She was gifted in poetry and shared that talent with many of her relatives and friends. She will be remembered as a lady with a big heart.
She was preceded in death by a son, Rory; her mother, Sibylle; and a special aunt, Dorothy Whitby. She is survived by her husband, Larry; daughter, Diane (Jerry) Decker of Shoshone; son, Hoby Sparks of Richfield; her father, Cleo Peterson of Jerome; a sister, Judy (Larry) Justesen of Rawlins, Wyo.; six brothers, Buzz (Carol) Peterson of Bellevue, Tom (Judy), Gannett, Ron (Anita) of Twin Falls, Skip (Trudy) of Carey, Marty (Gail) of Shoshone and Greg of Carey; six grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday at the First Baptist Church, 205 E. 5th Street, Shoshone, with graveside services to take place at 2:30 p.m. at the Carey Cemetery. Friends may call at the First Baptist Church one hour prior to the services.
Arrangements are under the care of Wood River Chapel of Hailey.
