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Pam Dirks leaves a legacy of hard work, encouragement and joyful family memories

SPENCER — Pamela “Pam” Sue Dirks, 63, of Spencer, died Monday, July 20, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the family she treasured most. A hardworking woman with a generous spirit, Pam is known for encouraging others, caring deeply for animals and bringing both wisdom and laughter into the lives of her children and grandchildren. A celebration of Pam’s life will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, August 7, 2026, at Geelan Funeral Home, 403 11th Street SE in Spencer. In lieu of flowers, the family invites friends to come share memories of Pam and spend time with those who mattered most to her — her family.
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SPENCER — Pamela “Pam” Sue Dirks, 63, of Spencer, died Monday, July 20, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the family she treasured most. A hardworking woman with a generous spirit, Pam is known for encouraging others, caring deeply for animals and bringing both wisdom and laughter into the lives of her children and grandchildren.

A celebration of Pam’s life will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, August 7, 2026, at Geelan Funeral Home, 403 11th Street SE in Spencer. In lieu of flowers, the family invites friends to come share memories of Pam and spend time with those who mattered most to her — her family.

Pam was born April 27, 1963, in Chouteau, Oklahoma, the daughter of Benny and Anna James Conatzer.

She married Tracy Dirks on November 7, 1987, and the couple shared 38 years of marriage and raised two sons together.

Throughout her life, Pam earned a reputation as a dedicated worker who was willing to take on nearly any task. She spent almost 20 years with Genesis Technologies in Oklahoma, serving in roles ranging from receptionist to manufacturing. She loved her work and formed lasting connections with the people alongside her.

During an earlier chapter in Spencer, Pam helped operate Spencer Tile. She never hesitated to get down on the floor and do the difficult work herself, including laying tile and tackling grouting jobs others often preferred to avoid.

After returning to Spencer in 2025, Pam worked for several months as a cook in the Spencer Community Schools kitchen.

Away from work, Pam had a special place in her heart for animals. Her cats were deeply loved, and neighborhood squirrels could count on finding a steady supply of food nearby.

She was also talented with her hands and enjoyed crocheting afghans and doilies, making decorative ribbon wreaths and working on other crafts. Pam appreciated the simple comforts of life, including relaxing with a Hallmark movie.

Her greatest happiness came from her family. To her grandchildren, she could be both the steady voice of reason and the delightfully “silly grandma” who created moments they will remember for years to come.

Pam attended Life Church in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, for several years. Her faith could be seen in her willingness to help others and in her ability to offer encouragement, particularly to young people who needed someone in their corner.

Pam is survived by her husband, Tracy Dirks of Spencer; her sons, Bill Dirks of Locust Grove, Oklahoma, and Derek and Emma Dirks of Spencer; four grandchildren, Desiree, Kylee, Adalyn and Norah; her sister, Terri Leach of Pryor, Oklahoma; and many additional relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her infant brother, David James; her grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.

Geelan Funeral Home is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.


If you would like an obituary, remembrance or tribute story published in NIT, please email the details to NORTHIOWATODAY@GMAIL.COM. This is a free service.

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