Donna Mae Sparks

DONNA MAE SPARKS

Donna Mae Sparks, 82, was promoted to Glory and gracefully rode off into the sunrise on December 30, 2023. Born on March 21, 1941, in Espanola, New Mexico, she was the eldest daughter of Robert and Norma Englehart. Donna was a force to be reckoned with - a fierce friend, wife, and mother who would give you the shirt off her back or throw a mean punch if you dared to cross her loved ones.

Donna grew up in Cortez, Colorado, where her father's family hailed from. She was the oldest of five children and was known for her strong-willed nature even from a young age. When she wasn't busy sewing, reading, or saddling up for a horseback ride, she was busy being the life of the party. 

Donna met and married the love of her life, James M. Sparks Jr., in 1977. Together they embarked on many adventures in their 30+ years of marriage, including running an outfitting business, raising 6 rowdy teenagers under one roof, and even selflessly extending their love to raise their granddaughter in their golden years. 

Donna shared her love of children by running a successful daycare. Through this business, she met and made friends who became family and eventually moved with her from California back to Colorado. As a true animal lover, Donna surrounded herself with animals throughout her life, including horses, cows, chickens, rabbits, cats and dogs. Her favorite breed was the pug; she took special care to breed and raise them, and often gifted the loyal and lovable companions to family and friends near and far.

Donna was known for her feisty spirit and a sense of humor that could make even the toughest cowboy crack a smile. Many folks in Cortez knew her as the fabric lady at the local Walmart, where she stitched together laughter and warmth for over a decade. 

Donna leaves behind a trail of cherished memories and loved ones. She is survived by her brother, Dwane Englehart, and sisters, Wanda Ingerton and Betty Jenkins. Her children, Rhonda Thompson, Weston and Sherry Johnson, Brittany and Joe McGettrick, and stepson Bucky and Nancy Sparks, will forever carry her spirit within them. Donna leaves behind 14 grandchildren and more than 25 great-grandchildren. Donna was preceded in her journey by her husband, James M. Sparks Jr., her parents, Robert and Norma Englehart, her brother Ricky Englehart, her stepdaughter Roxanne Choate and her son Larry Johnson and daughter Julie Knudsvig.

In honor of this remarkable woman, a graveside service will be held at the Arriola Cemetery at 10 am on May 11th and there will be a lunch celebration of life to follow at the Lewis Arriola Community Center. The festivities promise to be as vibrant as Donna's personality, so be sure to bring your dancing shoes and a heart full of joyful memories. 

Donna Mae Sparks will be remembered for her unwavering loyalty, nurturing nature, and sense of humor. She touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.  As we bid farewell to this remarkable soul, may we find solace in the knowledge that she has found eternal peace in the arms of her Heavenly Father.