Vivian Laura (Olson) Sparks — O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home

Vivian Laura (Olson) Sparks, 96, of Maywood, MO, passed away at 1:17 am Monday, September 30, 2024, at Country Aire Retirement Estates in Lewistown, MO.

Vivian was born August 12, 1928, in Springfield, IL to Edmund and Elsie (Biddle) Olson. She was married to Cyrus “Dale” Sparks on May 8, 1946, in New London, MO. He preceded her in death on March 26, 2002.

Survivors include her four children, Carolyn Sparks, Daniel Sparks (Virginia), Donald Dee Sparks (Barbara), and Sandra Leonard (Stewart); fourteen grandchildren, Donald, Daniel, Johnny, Nathan, Debbie, Rachel, Cyrus, Kevin, Steven, Laura, Joanna, Billy, Brittany, and Tiffany; numerous great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren; one brother, Edmund Olson (Martha); and one daughter in-law, Emma Sparks-Schreache.

Vivian was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; one son, John Dale Sparks Sr.; one sister, Geraldine Reese; one infant sister, Marjorie; one great-granddaughter, Paige Winklewich; and one sister in-law, Mary “Pat” Olson.

Vivian’s professional life was marked by two decades of dedicated service at Motorola, followed by her tenure at American Safety Equipment Company until her retirement in 1985. Her work ethic and commitment to excellence left a lasting impression on her colleagues and set a shining example for her family.

Beyond her professional achievements, Vivian’s heart was truly in her volunteer work and hobbies. For 30 years, she poured her energy into the Midwest Electric Railway, where her efforts were recognized with a “Volunteer of the Year” award. Her familiar face greeted countless visitors at the ticket booth for the trolley at the Old Threshers reunion. As a Sunday School Teacher, she nurtured the faith and curiosity of young minds with patience and love. Vivian’s hands were rarely still, as she found joy in crafting, sewing, and quilting, creating beautiful pieces that were both practical and artistic. Her love for literature was evident in her fondness for mysteries and Danielle Steele novels, which provided her with endless hours of adventure and romance. Shopping was another of Vivian’s pleasures, whether she was exploring the aisles of a store or the treasures of a flea market, she relished the thrill of the hunt.

Family was the cornerstone of Vivian’s world. She reveled in the opportunity to travel with her loved ones, sharing experiences in places like New York, Niagara Falls, Nashville, and Galveston. Her home was the heart of family gatherings, where her delicious holiday meals and inventive dishes brought everyone together in celebration and gratitude. Vivian’s life was marked by her love for life, her friendly demeanor, and her unwavering need to stay busy. Her zest for life and her commitment to her family and community will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Friends and Family are invited to Vivian’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Thursday, October 3, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL.

A Funeral Ceremony will be at 10:00 am Friday, October 4, 2024, at the O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy. Pastor DeWayne Larenson will officiate. Burial will follow at Kingston Cemetery in Kingston, IL.

Memorial contributions may be made to Kingston Cemetery or Assembly of God Church in Ewing, MO.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.