It is with overwhelming sadness that the family of Ian Douglas Sparkes mourn his passing on October 29th, 2018 at the age of 72 years. Predeceased by his mother and father Robert and Moira Sparkes. Ian will be lovingly remembered by his wife and best friend of 46 years, Mary, as well as his four devoted sons Ian, David (Joanna), Ryan (Laura) and Christian (Elizabeth), as well as three beautiful grandchildren Mia, Benjamin and Daniel. Also leaving to mourn his brothers Bobby (Pierette), Sandy and Stephen, sisters Elaine (Dick), Moira (Larry), Susan, and a wealth of cherished friends and family. A beloved teacher and renowned artist, Ian was a fiercely creative presence to all who knew him and a strong and uncompromising voice. Equal parts warm, humorous and direct, he was a true role model and father figure to the young men he coached in sports, and an endless source of inspiration to his adoring family, of whom he was forever proud. He always said family was his religion and his family worshipped him in turn. To say that he will be missed is an understatement. But the lessons he passed on will be forever imprinted on our hearts. We love you Mr. Sparkes, Hammer, Ian, Dad, Poppy. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at Caul's Funeral Home, LeMarchant Rd, St. John's, on Friday, November 2nd from 1-4 and 6-9 pm. No Mass to take place at his request. Celebration of Ian's life to take place at a later date. Flowers graciously accepted or donations may be made to the Newfoundland and Labrador Division of the Canadian Mental Health Association.