Duane R. Sparks - Rochester
Duane R. Sparks, 79, died Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2012, at Seasons Hospice in Rochester.
Duane was born in Stewartville, Jan. 12, 1933, to William and Luella (Miller) Sparks. He proudly served in U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Duane was a truck driver for Wilson Lines for many years and was currently at Viking GMC Buick of Rochester.
Duane married Louise Miland on Jan. 4, 1988.
He was a member of the American Legion, Korean Club and the Evangelical United Brethren. Duane enjoyed camping, plastic models, motorcycles and spending time with family and friends.
Duane is survived by his wife, Louise; children, Michael Strain and David (Tammy) Strain, both of Alma, Iowa, Barbara Holmes of Rochester, Leslie (DeAnne) Clausen of Norfolk, Neb., Dawn (Tim) Bohrer of Malvern, Iowa, Dennis (Dawn) Sparks of Henderson, Iowa, Gina Christensen of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Michael Elzy of Rochester; two brothers, Rodney (Judy) Clement of Rochester and Raymond (Sandi) Clement of Wisconsin; 30 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.
Duane is preceded in death by his parents; a son, Karl; a stepson, Robert; a brother, Wilbur; and two half brothers, Roland and Richard.
A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, with American Legion Chaplain Jerald Barnhart officiating. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.
Memorials can be directed to Duane's family.
Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place N.W., Rochester, MN 55901. (507) 289-3600