Deacon Robert Charles Sparkes

Deacon Bob passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord at Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital Orillia on September 27, 2022, at the age of 84.  Robert, beloved husband of Lei-Lanie (nee Irwin) for 63 years was dad to two sons, David Craig (Cherri) and the late Andrew Mark (Angela).  Loving grandfather to Serena, Lara Rae (Lukas Peters), and Hannah, he was  especially proud to be a great grandfather to Avilyn Rae.  He leaves behind numerous cousins in Wales and England, as well as John (Carol Ann) of Toronto and in-laws David Irwin (Patricia) and Norman Irwin (Mary).

Robert and his brother Brian (predeceased) moved to Canada from Wales in 1953 with their parents Robert Charles and Phyllis (Clapp).   The family settled in London, Ontario; where Robert developed his intense interest in technology and began a career in computer systems and software quality control.

Always a person of faith and integrity, Robert felt a strong commitment to working with the poor and disadvantaged.  He was ordained to the permanent diaconate in 1993 and served Our Lady of Grace Parish in Angus, and then the Orillia District Family of Catholic Churches.  Deacon Bob was a gentle, compassionate servant always ready to help and encourage others as we journey together in faith.  He will be missed.

Parish prayers will be offered at the Mundell Funeral Home, 79 West St. N., Orillia on Wednesday, October 5th at 6:30 p.m. followed by visitation from 7 – 9 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 6th at 2 o’clock at the Church of the Guardian Angels, Orillia.  Interment to follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery, Orillia.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Guardian Angels Building Fund or Sharing Place Food Bank would be greatly appreciated. Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.mundellfuneralhome.com