It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Leonard (Len) Sparing on November 18, 2021.
Len was born on June 22, 1931 in Helena, MT to Carl and Elizabeth (Clausen) Sparing. The youngest of five brothers, Len grew up on Peosta Street graduating from Helena High School in 1950.
Ina Nelson captured Len’s heart and they were married on April 4th, 1953. They were happily married for 64 years at the time of Ina’s passing. Len and Ina were blessed with 5 children; Larry, Bob, Terry, Sandy, and Jeff.
During the years of their marriage, Len and Ina enjoyed bowling, playing cards, dancing, reading, and camping with family and friends. Baseball, horseshoes, and fishing were among Len’s favorite pastimes.
Len served in the Naval Reserve and served a distinguished career with the Helena Police Department working his way through the ranks to captain and then detective. Upon retiring from the police force, Len worked for the Helena City Parks Department, serving a total of 30 years for the Helena community.
The last of an era, Len was preceded in death by his wife Ina, parents Carl and Elizabeth Sparing, brothers and sisters in law Dick and Sis Sparing, Walter and Irene Sparing, Donald and Virginia Sparing, Eddie and Deloris (Pete) Sparing, Carol and Bill Henwood. Len is survived by his children Larry and Jackie Sparing, Bob and Linda Sparing, Terry Sparing, Sandy and Jim Waekerlin and Jeff Sparing. His grandchildren Amy Carpenter, Erin (Daniel) Tiser, Adam Sparing, Callie (Brent) Harberts, Tyler (Katie) Sparing, Tim Sparing, Kyle Waekerlin, Ryan (Brittany) Waekerlin, Matt Wekerlin. He is also survived by 11 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Len was a devoted son, brother, husband, dad, grandfather, and friend. His gentle spirit and sweet smile will be missed. Per Len’s request, a private graveside service will be held at a later date.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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John & Cherie Dahl says
Leonard was a friend for many years. John was on a bowling 🎳 team with Leonard over 50 years ago. Thoughts and prayers 🙏 go out to the family 👋
Anthony Todd Nelson says
Uncle Leonard, was my favorite uncle, always smiling, always laughing. He is now reunited with Aunt In a. God bless them both.
Anthony Todd Nelson says
Uncle Leonard, was my favorite uncle, always smiling, always laughing. He is now reunited with Aunt Ina. God bless them both.
Rod Applegate says
To Jeff and the Sparing family. My thoughts and prayers and with you and your family during this difficult time. While it has been a while since we have seen each other Jeff, know that friendships continue!
Lynn Worsech says
To Jeff and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you on this difficult time.
Tom Erving says
Bob and Linda and family, so sorry for the loss of your dad. Sounds like the Sparing family has a heritage to continue. With our sincere sympathy. Tom and Debbie
Dan McGowan says
Bob and family:
Len was a true gentleman and kind soul. He worked for me at the city and I will always remember his greetings with a big warm smile. Prayers and thoughts to all of you.
Ron Morley says
Goodbye good friend. I will miss you!
My condolences to all of the Sparing family.
Nancy Albertson says
Uncle Leonard and the brothers were a comedy act when they all got together. Joking, giving each other a hard time and grinning when they did. I miss him, my Dad and the other brothers. Hopefully, they are back together and keeping the angels in stitches. I’m so sorry for your loss Larry, Bob, Terry, Sandy and Jeff. Know all of your families are grieving. Love & Hugs, Nancy
Karen Koepp Rowan says
I have so many fond memories of Leonard and Ina. Len and my dad worked together for many years. They had a lot of fun together. Playing cards and so much more. Len and Ina bought my grandparents house which made me so happy.
My husband and I always enjoyed running into Len and Ina at The Hofbrau.
A life well lived!
Frank and Karen Rowan