[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 44 (Thursday, April 18, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E569]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E569]]



                    IN MEMORY OF DR. SHERMAN SPARKS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RALPH M. HALL

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 18, 2002

  Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in honor of the 
beloved community member Dr. Sherman Sparks, of Rockwall, Texas. Dr. 
Sparks was a tireless country doctor who devoted his life to his 
friends and neighbors. He had served his community from the 1940's 
until his retirement in 1996. He died at the age of 92.
  Sherman was a bedrock of the Rockwall community as it grew from its 
rural roots into a suburban city. His devotion to the community was 
constant, though. It was said that he did not have patients, but he had 
friends. During his medical practice he delivered over 3,000 babies.
  He was very generous with those who needed him, but could not afford 
a doctor. He founded the Rockwall High School chemistry program and 
volunteered as doctor for the High School's athletic teams for over 30 
years. Sherman also donated his services as jail doctor for the 
Rockwall Detention Center between 1945 and 1975. Dr. Sparks made house 
calls up until the day he retired--often traveling to homes that could 
only be reached by tractors.
  Outside of his medical services, Sherman was also instrumental in the 
community's politics. He founded the Rockwall County Republican Party 
and even traveled to Washington to testify before Congress on behalf of 
his patients about Social Security. In the mid-1950's Sherman was 
instrumental in starting the Rockwall Municipal Airport, much of which 
they built with their own hands. He was an avid pilot.
  Mr. Speaker, Dr. Sherman Sparks was one of those rare community 
leaders who gave his entire life to shaping the community. The impact 
he made is incalculable. He will be remembered as a selfless giver and 
great family man, a father to four sons, Dr. Randy P. Sparks, Dr. Bob 
Sparks, David P. Sparks and James Sparks; with 14 grandchildren and 
numerous great-grandchildren. We will remember with sadness the passing 
of this kind and caring man who gave everything to his family and 
community--Dr. Sherman Sparks.

                          ____________________