Carole A. (Pawlak) Sparks

With profound sadness we announce the passing of our loving and devoted mother and friend to all whose lives she touched, on December 26, 2021 Carole "Carrie" Ann Sparks, age 79 of Portage, Michigan passed away embraced by the love of her family and supported by the prayers of her friends and congregation, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, MI. The youngest daughter of Stanley and Helen (Kubiak) Pawlak, Carrie was born September 2, 1942 in Cook County, Illinois. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Helen and Stanley Pawlak, and dear sister Dolores Pawlak. Surviving are her 3 adoring daughters, Debra Anna Marie (Philip) Yu of Phoenix, AZ, Kimberly Ann Bull (Chester Pierzchala) of Knox, IN, and Christina Susan (Jason) Killian of Richland, MI. She was a treasured stepmother to Becky Drewrey and Fay Sisco. Her greatest joy was being a Nana to her beloved grandchildren who were the light of her life, Gabrielle Harbrecht, Joshua Bandemier, Jasmine Robinson, Julie, Abby, Bella, and Mia Killian.

Carrie lived a full life as a wonderful Mother and Nana, dedicated friend, homemaker, and volunteer. She loved the Lord and was a devout member of the First Reformed Church of Portage where she was the coordinator for the Fun Seekers Trips for Senior members of her congregation. Carrie was known for being a happy outgoing person who loved to give hugs, uplift those in need with prayer, and share her winning smile willingly to all. She was loved by all who met her. She actively volunteered at the Portage Community Center and was also a member of the Portage Chapter of Tops #1777. Carrie loved to bake and was always happy to delight family and friends alike with her delicious recipes, she loved to lift her voice in song, was highly skilled with her crochet hook and crafted beautiful hats and soft toys. Carrie loved people and was a wonderful friend and community member. Most of all she loved her family and instilled the strong value of togetherness. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, house plants would be welcomed to distribute to family as a loving reminder. Visitation will be held at the First Reformed Church of Portage, 7905 S Westnedge Ave, Portage, MI 49002 on Thursday, December 30, 2021 beginning at 10:00a.m. Retired Pastor Clayton will preside over the celebration of Carrie's life starting at 11:00a.m. A luncheon will be held directly afterward. In accordance with Carrie's wishes, a private graveside service will be held in Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside, Illinois.