Robert Douglas Sparks

Robert “Bob” Douglas Sparks, 58, of New Freedom, PA, and formerly of Maryland, passed away Monday, May 4, 2026. Born in Baltimore City, MD, he was the son of the late Robert Celts Sparks and Grace Irene Ellis.

Bob was employed by PCA, an RR Donnelley company, in Timonium, MD, as a pressman. In a career that spanned roughly 40 years, he was named an outstanding press operator by Printing Industries of Maryland and worked for several companies while training and mentoring others in his profession.

Known for his sense of humor, Bob often greeted friends and family members with a joke. He also showed his love for them by cooking and grilling their favorite meals. Bob also enjoyed fishing, was mechanically inclined, and built decks for many friends over the years.

A music lover and sports fan, he experienced some of his favorite memories while attending concerts with his loved ones and cheering on his favorite sports teams, the Baltimore Orioles and Miami Dolphins (until the Ravens came to town).

Bob is survived by his children, Zach, Britt, Amanda, Peyton, and Spencer; partner of over 20 years, Lisa Ennis; seven grandchildren including Grace, whom he shared an especially close connection with; and sisters Penny Hendrix (Roland) and Karey Finkel (Jeff).

There will be a public viewing from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Hartenstein Funeral & Cremation Care, Inc., 24 N. Second St., New Freedom, PA 17349. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday at 12:00 p.m. Interment will immediately follow at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery.

A celebration of life will follow the funeral service.