On Feb. 12, 1951, Cpl. Ronald M. Sparks, United States Army from Cambridge, became missing in action (MIA) while his unit was clearing a road block held by the opposing forces in the vicinity of Hoengsong, Republic of Korea. A repatriated American Prisoner of War reported that PFC Sparks died while in captivity at POW Camp 1, Changsong, Democratic People’s Republic of North Korea on May 26, 1951.

He was the beloved son of the late Herbert and Betty Sparks of Cambridge, brother of Lawrence Sparks of Cambridge, Irene Sparks of Somerville and the late Warren, William, Marion and Clifford Sparks.

He is survived by his nephew Bob Sparks of Edgartown, who recently wrote about the journey to bring his uncle home.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather at the DeVito Funeral Home at 1145 Massachusetts Avenue in Arlington on Thursday, August 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. for his wake.

On Friday, August 19 at 11 a.m. Corporal Sparks will be laid to rest with his parents and little brother Clifford in the Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett with full military honors. All are welcome. The family will gather at 9:30 a.m. for small prayer before the interment.

Corporal Sparks was awarded the Bronze Star with V device (for valor) prior to becoming an MIA soldier in August 1950, and was also a Purple Heart Medal recipient.

To send an online condolence or for directions, please visit devitofuneralhomes.com.