Chris Michael Sparks

      It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Chris Michael Sparks, age 76, of Sumner, MI, on Friday, May 16, 2025. Chris was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, whose presence will be missed but never forgotten.
      A Celebration of Life will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes in Ithaca, MI, on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. with Mr. Larry Bond officiating. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 4-8 P.M. at the funeral home.
      Chris was born in Alma, MI, on September 14, 1948, to Bernard and Pauline (Wood) Sparks. He was a graduate of Ithaca High School and went on to earn an Associate Degree from Ferris State College. He married his high school sweetheart, Susan Rimmel, on February 28, 1970, at the First Presbyterian Church in Alma. Together they celebrated 55 wonderful years of marriage.
      Known for his quiet strength and generous heart, he lived a life rooted in nature, learning and love. Whether fixing golf carts, experimenting with recipes in the kitchen, or sharing his favorite baked goods, he found joy in the simple pleasures and in helping others-often without seeking recognition.
     He cherished his family deeply and rarely missed a chance to attend his grandchildren's events. He was also a proud member of the Ithaca Masonic Lodge, where he found camaraderie and shared values with others.
      Chris is survived by his loving wife, Susan Sparks of Sumner, MI; his daughter Angela and son-in-law Jason Ostrander of Ithaca, MI; his son Michael and daughter-in-law Nikki Sparks of Ithaca, MI; his cherished grandchildren: Sidney (Richard), Jared, Tristan, and Taryn (Ethan); and great-grandchildren: Layton, Jameson, and Isla. He is also survived by his brother Jerry and sister-in-law Linda Sparks of Grass Lake, MI; his sister-in-law Sally and brother-in-law Larry Bond of Elwell, MI; his sister-in-law Shelley and brother-in-law Larry Faucette of Chapel Hill, NC; many nieces and nephews. Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Pauline Sparks, his father-in-law and mother-in-law Rex and Doff Rimmel, and his brother-in-law Rick and his wife Mary Rimmel.
      He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, quiet acts of service, and a deep respect for the world around him. In honor of Chris’ generous spirit, the family invites you to consider performing a random act of kindness, anonymously, in his memory.
     Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.