James S. McSparran

SIOUX CITY -- James S. McSparran, 81, of Sioux City died Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2008, at a Sioux City hospital, following a brief illness.

Memorial services will be 1 p.m. Friday, November 21, 2008 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Private inurnment will be held at Graceland Park Cemetery under the direction of Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel. Visitation will be one hour prior to service time today at the church.

Jim was born Jan. 7, 1927, in Westfield, Iowa, the son of Samuel and Mabel McSparran. He was united in marriage with Mary M. Pritchard on June 12, 1946, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Sioux City. Jim served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1955 during the Korean War.

Jim was the owner of McSparran Body Shop in Sioux City for many years. As the proud owner of a 1929 Lincoln automobile, which he purchased in 1957, and lovingly restored. Jim was known to many in Siouxland through the car shows and parades he participated in with his unique vehicles over the last 50 years. He was a member of the Siouxland Antique Car Club since 1957, when he purchased The Lincoln.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Mary. A wonderful father and grandfather, Jim is also survived by three children, Cynthia Binder of Bloomington, Ill., Jim A. (Nancy) McSparran of Barre, Vt., and Kristine (Chuck) Bendlage of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and three grandchildren, Nathan and Sarah McSparran and Alexander Bendlage.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; and a sister.

The family extends special thanks to the nursing and Hospice staff on 7th floor of Mercy Hospital for their care and compassion.

A memorial fund has been set up by the family.