Arnold Sparr's Obituary
Arnold Francis Sparr, 83, of Charlotte died February 18, 2025 at his home. He was born on July 6, 1941 in Brooklyn, NY to the late Anton and Jean Sparr.
He graduated from Frostburg State University in Maryland in 1963 with a degree in education. His first job was as a teacher in Jersey City, NJ before making his way to Long Island to become a teacher in Hicksville, NY. While teaching 4th grade in Hicksville, he met the love of his life, Joan Kehrt, a fellow teacher. Arnie and Joan were married August 27, 1966. A few years later they moved to Levittown, NY where they ultimately began their family. They welcomed their first son Brian in 1976 and he was followed by their son Kenneth in 1977.
Arnold worked as a teacher for over 15 years before making a career move into the Cable Industry as a human resources professional.
He was a selfless person who gave his time and energy to so many people including complete strangers. He spent his retirement building homes for Habitat for Humanity, volunteering countless hours at the USO supporting our military members and their families, and volunteered with the Kiwanis Club helping his local community. He had a love of sports, especially baseball and the New York Mets and he passed that love onto his family. He spent hundreds of days at the ballpark watching his sons play and later watching his grandsons play.
He was preceded in death by his wife Joan and brother Tony.
Survivors include sons Brian Sparr (fiance Lori Chamberlain) of Jacksonville, FL and Kenneth Sparr (wife Melissa) of Concord; and grandchildren, Nicholas Rheel, Carter Sparr and Casey Sparr.
A Funeral service will be held at 4 PM Sunday, February 23 at James Funeral Home. Visitation will be 3-4 PM prior. Burial will be private at Northlake Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor can be made to the North Carolina USO using the link below, or you can send donations to:
USO Charlotte Center
5501 Josh Birmingham Pkwy, Box 21,
Charlotte, NC 28208
www.northcarolina.uso.org/support/donate
James Funeral Home is assisting the family, online condolences may be made at www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.
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