Oct. 20, 1925 — Dec. 31, 2006

Katherine Louise "Kay" Sparks was born in Cainsville, Mo., to Delbert and Lois (McLain) Wilson. She spent her childhood in the Cainsville area.

She met Harold E. Sparks in high school and they were married May 30, 1942. For a short time they lived in Colorado Springs, Colo., while Harold was preparing to enter World War II. During the war Katherine moved to Oregon to be with his family. She worked at a local restaurant while Harold was in the South Pacific. When Harold returned, they decided to make Albany their home.

Katherine worked at Swift's Cannery and for Dr. Scott, a local dentist. Katherine was head of the cosmetic department for PayLess Drug and retired from that position in 1984 after 30 years of employment.

Katherine enjoyed fishing and camping with Harold. She also liked to read, cook, play cards, travel, and winter in Hemit, Calif., and Yuma, Ariz. She loved taking her granddaughters on trips to the coast and back to Missouri. Her most recent joy was her great-grandchild, Owen. She belonged to Willamette Community Church.

Son Charles Edward died at age 11 months. Brothers Lawrence, Norman and Larry, and sisters Carol, Vera and Charlotte preceded Katherine in death.

Surviving are daughter Ruth and son-in-law Michael Alderson; brothers Clayton and Melvin; sisters Helen, Vivian, Evelyn and Shirley; granddaughter Andria and Doug Such, granddaughter Tara and Brian Dukes; great-grandson Owen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be Friday at Willamette Community Church. Private burial will be at Willamette Memorial Park.

Contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association in care of AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home. AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home is handling arrangements. (www.aasum-dufour.com)

Albany Democrat Herald January 4, 2007