Obituary of Richard C. Sparling

Richard C. Sparling, age 84, entered the arms of his Savior on March 12, 2024. Dick was born in Erie, PA on August 26, 1939 to the late Charles and Marie (Nichols) Sparling. He is survived by his wife Gladys (Steele) Sparling, whom he married on August 4, 1962, and his four children: Jane Sparling of Clifton, NJ, Rita Sparling Salazar [Ric] of Virginia Beach, VA, Brenda Eccles [John] of Jamestown and James Sparling [Damiola] of Virginia Beach, VA. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Michael Bailey, Charles Bailey and Sophie Sparling. Dick served in the army for three years before returning to Bemus Point to help his father with his boat business. Dick went on to become the owner/operator of Shore Acres Boat Yard for 50 years. He was an avid ham radio operator for most of his life under the call letters K2EY. He was a longstanding member of the Chautauqua County Amateur FM Association and enjoyed speaking with people around the world, especially being able to help during international disasters. He was an active member of Bethel Baptist Church all of his adult life. Dick enjoyed the races at Stateline, baseball at Diethrick Park, Buffalo Bills football and his travels to St. Cloud, FL. We treasure all of the time we had with him and will miss him greatly. No visitation will be observed. A private family graveside service will be held at the Bemus Point Cemetery. Memorial donations would be appreciated to Bethel Baptist Church, 200 Hunt Road, Jamestown, NY 14701 or Chautauqua Hospice & Palliative Care, 20 W. Fairmount Avenue, Lakewood, NY 14750 https://chpc.care/donate/memorials_donations/.