In Memory of

Larry

Douglas

Sparling

Obituary for Larry Douglas Sparling

Larry (Lawrence) Douglas Sparling
June 21, 1949 – May 4, 2018
May 4, 2018, Larry Sparling, age 68, lost his lengthy battle against cancer.
He was predeceased by his father Steven, mother Marion, and brother David.
He is survived by his two brothers Glenn (Terry) and Victor (Carol) and sister-in-law Tal (David) and all of their respective families.
Larry’s early education took place in Winnipeg where he completed his Elementary Schooling at Riverview and High Schooling at Churchill. He will always be remembered though for his passion towards teaching “English as a Second Language” which is evident by time spent in Japan, South America and Canada where he taught at the Elementary, High School and Post- Secondary levels in both the private and public school systems. He obtained a Creative Communications Diploma through his studies at Red River Community College and a Master’s Degree in Education (English Literature) through programs offered by the Universities of Winnipeg and Manitoba. He was a life-long learner who continued to further his education while living in Toronto, where he developed an innovative program to teach ESL through drama. He knew words and literature and could easily explain complicated prose and diction to ensure a clear understanding by all.
To augment income from time to time over his life Larry also contributed to society through his employment with various private security firms.
Outside of his literary world Larry enjoyed spending time with Family, especially over the Christmas and Easter Holidays where he stayed with David, Tal and the girls. While in no way a sports fan, he did very much enjoy the game of pool, where an opportunity presented, a game would be on. He had a very strong belief in the “Alternative” approach to healing and always had the best of intentions in mind when offering advice to others.
He will be fondly remembered and missed.
The family would like to recognize and thank all the caregivers especially those at the St. Boniface and Victoria Hospitals who provided much needed assistance during his final days. You are truly angels.
In keeping with Larry’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held to
honour his life’s contributions and memory.