The family of Ernest Albert Sparks Jr. 91, sadly announces that "Ernie" passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 6 with his children at his side.

Ernie was born on November 14th, 1932at Elyria Memorial Hospital to Ernest and Ethel Sparks. He was a lifelong resident of Elyria and graduated from Elyria High School in 1951 where he met the love of his life Carol (nee O'Brien). He and Carol were married nearly 70 years and had five children together.

Ernie served on the frontlines in the Korean War with the U.S. Army Infantry. When he came home in 1954, he began a 47-year career with C. A. Olsen Manufacturing/Westinghouse/Luxaire/ Borg Warner York located off West River Rd. After retirement he and his wife spent the next 25 winters in their home-away-from-home in Port Charlotte, Florida where he loved fishing, helping his neighbors, and socializing. Ernie had a quick wit and loved to make people smile. He was a devoted husband and spent many happy years with his wife traveling extensively throughout all 50 states and the United Kingdom. Ernie was a member of St. Jude Church for 65 years and a member of the VFW on Abbe  Rd.

Ernie is survived by his daughter Barbara Sparks (Henry Davis) and sons Ernie Sparks (Kathy) and Danny Sparks (Lori), 15 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Carol, his daughter Nancy Seal, and son Dennis Sparks.

A graveside service will be held at noon on Saturday June 15that St. Mary's Cemetery7284 Lake Ave, Elyria, Ohio. Rev. Fr.Joe Scalco, pastor of St. Jude Church will officiate. Friends and family are invited to the Sparks family home after the service for food and fellowship.

There will be no viewing/visitation.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elyria. Online Condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com