A small rectangular green space in downtown Omak, the park is the site of various community functions and events through the year, including the local farmers' market and
Art in the Park. The Farmer's Market is held every Tuesday beginning mid June, running through October. Given that the park holds a bandstand, we assume that the odd concert takes place here, too. In the past the bandshell has been used for theater, music and dance performances, as well as community movie nights. The inside walls of the bandshell have been painted with a mural depicting a summer festival in the park - a July 4th Community Picnic.
Southeast of the bandstand, facing Ash Street, is this exposed aggregate pillar, a memorial to ex Omak mayor, Dale Sparber. It is comprised of a small concrete shaft, about 3.5 to 4 feet tall, with a brass plaque mounted on the angled top.
Born September 26, 1937 in Clarkston, Washington, Dale spent nearly 40 years in the lumber industry, eventually coming to Omak, where he became mayor, holding that title for eleven years. He passed away May 22, 2008.
In Memory
of
Mayor Dale Sparber
Omak City Council
Dale Sparber
Omak, WA
September 26, 1937 - May 22, 2008
In Loving Memory
Dale Sparber of Omak embarked on a new journey on Thursday, May 22, 2008 as a result of a heart attack. Dale had numerous accomplishments in his 70 years of life which began in Clarkston, Wash. on Sept. 26, 1937. He was involved in several associations and clubs, not only as a coach and/or member, but more often than not, an officer.
Dale enjoyed his life and he enjoyed helping those around him enjoy theirs. Although he retired from the lumber industry after nearly 40 years, he still remained Secretary/Treasurer of the International Saw Filer's Education Association.
Over the past seven years as Mayor of Omak, Dale found great pleasure in serving the township to make a better place for the residents. His accomplishments in the community, (i.e. improving communications with the Colville Indian Tribe, obtaining state funding for improving the Stampede Arena, beginning steps to replace the existing bridge over the Okanogan River and arranging annual visits from Santa Claus, etc.) speak volumes for the respect and endearment he felt for the area.
He is not only survived by his wife Jill, who he was married to for 49 years, and their three children, Mark Sparber, Dennis Sparber and Susan Patterson; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and his sister and brother-in-law, Carey and Trish Pruitt of Omak, but also numerous lifelong friends throughout the community and beyond.
To be related to or to be his friend makes all of us very proud to say Dale Sparber was a part of our lives and we will all miss him unconditionally.
Dale's family would like to express their utmost gratitude and admiration to his friends. It's a shame we never realize how much someone is loved and admired until they are gone, but over the days since his demise, our family has been shown what a spectacular community you have built at his side and as a tribute to his dedication and love for his efforts, we hope it continues.
Per Dale's wishes, in lieu of a funeral, a Celebration of Life will be held on June 7, 2008 at 11a.m. at the Omak Performing Arts Center (Omak PAC). Please join us in sharing the memories of his life.
From the Okanogan Chronicle