Wayne was born in Erie on June 22, 1920, the son of Floyd E. and Hazel M. Ellis Sparks. He graduated from Erie High School in 1938 and attended Parsons Community College and Pittsburg State University.
He served his country in the United States 8th Army Air Corps (later called Air Force) during WWII.
Wayne was united in marriage to Virginia Keas on July 7, 1942, in Chanute. She preceded him in death on June 11, 2009.
Wayne was the sales manager for KKOY radio for 25 years. He also worked in the Tioga Barber Shop and then owned and operated Topper Barber Shop for many years (where he cut hundreds of flattops). He served as a director for the Chamber of Commerce. He officiated at high school and junior college basketball and football games for many years. His last job was at Tri-Valley Developmental Services where he worked until his death.
He was an avid golfer until recent years and taught golf to others, including his daughters. For several years Wayne served as a Kansas Silver Haired Legislator for Neosho County.
He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and a member of the choir for more than 60 years because of his love for music.
Wayne is survived by his daughters, Nancy Ann Dudley and her husband, David, Littleton, Colo., and Linda Kay Meyer and her husband, Don, Bella Vista, Ark.; seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Virginia; three infant triplet sons, Gary, Larry, and Terry; and a brother, Charles E. Sparks.
Cremation has taken place.
A memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 20 at the First United Methodist Church in Chanute.
The family will receive friends on Thursday from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Penwell-Gabel Johnson Chapel in Chanute.
Memorials in his name may be made to First United Methodist Church or Tri-Valley Developmental Services and may be left with the funeral home.
To leave a special message for the family on-line, visit www.PenwellGabelChanute.com
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