Richard Sparks

Richard Sparks, 75, a lifelong resident of Albuquerque, passed away Thursday, February 28, 2019. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Carol; four sons, Russ and friend, Jody, Craig and wife, Lisa and Mark and Chris; grandchildren, Kaela, Kyle, Chance and Ethan; brother, LeRoy and wife Shirley; brother-in-law, Rick Hays and wife Kitty and several nieces and nephews. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Troy and Allene; two sisters, Betty Hullinger and Jacqueline Driver.

Richard was an electronic engineer at Sandia National Laboratories where he enjoyed working for over 38 years. While at Sandia he developed RF camera collars and receivers as part of a project to assess whether K-9 cameras could assist police SWAT teams. He was called to the Twin Towers in New York City after the 911 attack to use the K-9 cameras to help with the rescue and recovery operation. He spent 22 days there assembling the collars en route and on scene in New York.

Richard enjoyed traveling and spending time in wilderness areas. He especially liked going in his RV to the mountains.

A Memorial Service will be held Thursday, March 14, 2019, 1:00 p.m., at FRENCH – Wyoming.