With heavy hearts, the family of Ephraim John Sparkes, age 84, of St. Anthony, NL, announces his peaceful passing on January 31, 2025, at Western Health's Palliative Care Unit, surrounded by his loving family.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Ephraim was the rock of his family. He shared 63 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Marina Sparkes, who was his greatest companion and best friend. together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished moments.
Born on October 6, 1940 in Lower Island Cove. Ephraim dedicated his life to teaching, shaping the minds and futures of countless students over the years. His passion for education went beyond the classroom, as he believed that learning was a lifelong journey. Whether he was explaining a lesson, sharing a story, or offering words of encouragement, he had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and valued.
Outside of teaching, Ephraim found his greatest joy in the outdoors, developing a deep love for nature at an early age. An avid hunter and fisherman, he found peace in nature whether casting a line on a quiet morning, tracking game through the woods, or simply sitting by a campfire sharing stories. He passed this passion on to his children and grandchildren, teaching them not just the skills of the outdoors but the values of patience, respect, and appreciation for the simple things in life.
Above all, Ephraim was a man of integrity, hard work, and kindness. He was happiest surrounded by family, reliving past adventures and teaching life's greatest lessons - not just in a classroom, but in everyday moments. His warm smile, steady presence, and unwavering love will be deeply missed.
Ephraim Sparkes is survived by his loving wife, Marina Sparkes; his children Bob (Cindy), Lisa (Bill), Lynn (Rick), Lori (Sheldon) and daughter in law Christina; his grandchildren Natasha, Vanessa, Krystopher, Mark, Benjamin, Jenna, Adrian and Joshua; and his treasured great-grandchildren Marcus and Jessie. Eph will be lovingly remembered by his siblings Arthur (Eileen), Josie, Phyllis (Boyd-deceased), Joyce (Rick). He will also be missed by sister in law, Audrey, Melva (David-deceased), Linda; brother in law Don and a large circle of nieces and nephews. Ephraim was preceded in death by his son and best friend David, parents Eliab and Mary Sparkes of Lower Island Cove, in-laws Fred and Edna Roberts of St. Anthony, sister Marion, brothers Lawrence and Warren (Elsie), son in law Trace Gardner, sister in law Rita Roberts and brother in law Guy Roberts.
Visitation will be held at Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm. The funeral service will take place from Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at 11:00 am with Major Anthony Stokes and Major Beverly Dart-Stokes officiating. Cremation will follow with inurnment at a later date. In honor of his love for teaching and the outdoors, the family invites friends to share their favorite memories and lessons learned from him. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St. Anthony Lions Club in his memory.
Though he has left this earth, his spirit will forever roam the woods, cast along the rivers, and live on in the hearts of those he taught, guided, and loved.