PEKIN – Raymond E. Sparks, 84, of Pekin, formerly of Peoria, passed away at 1:51 a.m. on Sunday, May 13, 2012 at Pekin Manor with family at his side.

He was born October 10, 1927 in Peoria to Roy H. and Cecilia (Nave) Sparks. He married Josephine Carolina Van Camp on April 21, 1949 in Boom, Belgium. She preceded him in death.

He was also preceded in death by both parents, three brothers, and one sister.

Raymond is survived by one daughter Maureen (Jim) Pendergras of North Pekin; three sons Brent Sparks of Dahinda, Edward (Brenda) Sparks of Peoria, and David Sparks of Omaha, NE; two sisters Margeret (Tom) Hoyland and Betty Mae Bramlet both of Peoria; six grandchildren Jodi (John) Smith of Waynesville, MO, James Pendergras of North Pekin, Jason Sparks of Brimfield, Anita (Brandon) Barger of East Peoria, Jeremy Sparks of Dahinda and Raymond Sparks of Nebraska; two great-grandchildren Dylan Sparks and Andrew Sparks.

Raymond had a 30 year career as a Teamster for Local #627 delivering ready-mix concrete for Irons Quality Concrete Company and Faubel and Sons Redi-Mix.

He was a merchant seaman at the age of 17 from 1945 to 1949.

He also was a member of Peoria Sportsman’s Club.

Funeral services will be at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 at Wright & Salmon Mortuary. Pastor Tony Darr will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 6:30 p.m. prior to the service at Wright & Salmon Mortuary. Private burial of ashes will be in Mackinaw Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, Central Illinois Chapter, 608 W. Glen Ave., Peoria, IL 61614.

Tributes and condolences may be submitted to www.wrightandsalmon.com.