Robert W. Sparling

Age 68 of Elmira, passed away unexpectedly Friday, December 31, 2010. He is survived by his wife of 2 1/2 years, Starla (Klein) Sparling and predeceased by his first wife of 37 years, Theresa Sparling. Bob has three children, Robert (Barbara) Sparling of Pine City, Karalyn (Wade) Hill of San Antonio, TX and Margaret (Bob) Green of Pine City and has two step children, David and Yolanda Klein. He is also survived by his brothers; Stewart Sparling, Jr. of Albany, NY, Raymond Sparling, Sr. of Long Island, NY, Larry Sparling of DE,Conrad John Sparling , Gary Sparling and sister; Alice Buesker of Queens, NY. He also has nine grandchildren; Stephanie Hill, Bobby Sparling, Mandy Macy, Cassandra Hill, James Hill, Katie Green, Billy Sparling,Emily Green and two great grandchildren. Bob was one of nine children and had a very special bond with his youngest brother Gary. Bob served his country in the United States Army from 1959-1963 in Korea. Bob was a mechanic in the Elmira area for several years including owning his own shop, Bob's Auto Repair. He was an active member of the VFW Post 901 and the American Legion. He has held several positions throughout the years. Bob enjoyed playing golf, playing Gumby slot machines at the casinos and playing Jungle Gin on the computer. Bob was also an avid Dallas Cowboys fan. He was proud of his vegetable garden, loved to laugh and made friends wherever he went. Family and friends are invited to share their memories at Olthof Funeral Home, Inc., 1050 Pennsylvania Avenue, Elmira/Southport Wednesday, January 5, 2011 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm with a brief service to follow at 7 pm. Reverend Richard Farrell will officiate. A private burial will take place on Thursday, January 6, 2011 in St. Peter and Paul's Cemetery.A 'Candle of Remembrance' may be left for the family in obituaries atwww.olthof.com