Obituary of Joseph E. Sparks
Joseph Edward Sparks was born on March 30, 1961, in Portland. He grew up in Eugene with his parents, Dean and Pearl Lewman. At the age of 8 was gifted with a brother, Derrick, whom he adored. His childhood was spent with his amazing cousins who always remained close, his aunt, to whom he referred as, "my big sis," and his grandparents who loved their "Joey" beyond words. He had many fond memories with his grandpa Bill, learning everything there was to know about fishing and hunting, and ultimately, they got his first buck together.
Joe attended North Eugene High School where he loved to play baseball. In 1982, he moved to Lewiston after visiting his close friend, Jack. He was drawn to the area's rugged mountains that were fit for hunting, and the river right at his fingertips that would allow for years of fishing. He felt a deep connection to the area, later finding out that his great-great-grandparents had been laid to rest there many years before.
In 1984, he married and had two daughters, Jolene and Jessica. He included his girls in everything that he loved. Together they enjoyed camping, hunting for morel mushrooms at their secret spots, fishing and frequent trips to the Oregon Coast where he planned the biggest fishing trip they would have. He continued to make us laugh through his witty use of movie quotes back and forth, up until the end. He was a loving father.
He had a passion for hunting and fishing and enjoyed great times with friends from Oregon, Idaho and Wyoming and had the stories, pictures and trophies to show for it. He took pride in his beautifully landscaped yard and growing, harvesting and cooking from his garden. He was always ready for a good western movie, sitting around a bonfire like his grandma Bessie loved to do, or spending time with his eight grandchildren: Diesel, Madi, Paige, Lexy, Kamara, Bronson, Francesca and Raquel. Papa Joe loved them all so much. His last 21 years were spent with his fiancé, Sheryl. Their best times together were spent on the boat or camping.
Joe passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2024, after health struggles were ultimately too much for his body, but in true Joe form, he fought until the end. He will be deeply missed. Joe’s service will be held in Eugene, Oregon.
