Sparks, Ronald LeeRonald Lee Sparks, of Wausau, WI, passed away on Friday, June 2nd, 2017 after a 6 year battle with cancer. He was 57 years old. A kind, generous, and caring family man, he will be remembered by all those whose lives he touched. Ron was always an upbeat, friendly person with a kind word and smile for everyone he talked to. Ron was born on March 30th, 1960 to Henry and Vicie Sparks in Richmond, VA. He grew up in Greenwood Lake, NY and attended Monroe-Woodbury High School, where he excelled in track. After graduation, Ron enlisted in the US Army and was stationed in Bamberg, Germany, with the 82nd Engineer Battalion. While living in Germany, Ron met the love of his life, his wife Barbara Leuthner. They were married on March 26th, 1981, and had 4 children together. After his discharge, Ron spent time at home with his family in New York and California before moving back to Germany in 1994, where he worked in construction and landscaping. In 2013, Ron and Barbara moved to Wausau, Wisconsin to be close to their children and grandchildren. Ron spent his years in Wausau gardening, barbecuing, fishing, watching his New York Mets and Giants on the TV, and being "Opa" for his grandkids. We will all miss Ron for his kindness, his courage, and his grace during his battle. He was known to be stubborn at times, but it was a blessing to see the fire in him when he needed it most. He is survived by his loving wife Barbara, his mother Vicie Sparks, Greenwood Lake, New York, his two sons; Ronald (Olesja) Sparks, Wausau, Kevin Sparks, Wausau, two daughters; Cindy (Scott) Bardo, Wausau, Stephanie (David) Good, Wausau, one brother Carlton Sparks, Greenwood Lake, New York, one sister Sherry (Bob) Bowler, Monroe, New York, six grandchildren; Timothy, Philip Bardo, Ashley, Lillian, Jamie Sparks and Kayden Good. He is preceded in death by his father Henry and one sister Mary Lewis.Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting family at this time. On line condolences can be made at www.HonorOne.com