Richard Spark

RICHARD ALAN SPARK was born on July 12, 1952, to Charles and Marilyn (Petersen) Spark in Pipestone, Minnesota. Richard grew up in Pipestone along with four siblings by his side. He would help on the farm and clothing store that his parents owned. Richard attended Pipestone High School where he was involved in wrestling and graduated in 1970. Following graduation, Richard attended school at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, Iowa, where he studied technology. He was united in marriage to Vanessta Olsen in 1976. Together they were blessed with two children, Brett and Grant. They made their home in Elk River, Minnesota, and were married for 18 years. Throughout Richard’s life, he worked as a computer programmer out of Elk River and Minneapolis. Richard later returned home to Pipestone where he worked at Minnesota West Community and Technical College until his retirement. Richard passed away on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at his home in Pipestone at the age of 69 years, 11 months, and 10 days.

Richard enjoyed golfing and was a member at Pipestone Country Club. He also enjoyed watching all of Minnesota’s college and professional sports teams, going to Lake Koronis in Paynesville, Minnesota, where he loved relaxing by the water, and spending time with his family and friends. Richard especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and watching them play and reading to them. He will be missed for his outgoing and personable personality, and his humor.

Richard is survived by his children, Brett (Kirsten) Spark of Blaine, Minnesota, and Grant Spark of Elk River, Minnesota; grandchildren, Jackson Spark and Kennedy Grace Spark; siblings, Kathie Kavolak of Blaine, David (Gay) Spark of Spencer, Iowa, Stephen (Beverly) Spark of Stillwater, Minnesota, and Linda Spark of Monterey, California; and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Larry Kavolak.