January 29, 1941 - January 12, 2019
Roger died at Victoria General Hospital on Jan. 12, 2019 after a horrific auto accident on the Trans Canada Highway near Langford on Jan. 8, 2019.
A resident of Cowichan Bay, Roger is survived by his wife Vivian, brother Garth in Coquitlam, daughter Camille in Seattle and extended family. He is pre-deceased by his mother, Clara and his father, Gordon Sparkes formerly of Burnaby.
Obtaining a BA and Masters of Adult Education from UBC in the late 60's, Roger spent a successful career in adult education specializing in the performing arts.
From teaching drama at Point Grey High School in Vancouver and a long career in school programs for the National Film Board of Canada, based in the Okanagan, Roger came to Vancouver Island to work for the Provincial Government's Cultural Services Branch.
Moving to Duncan he became the Theatre Director of the Cowichan Community Centre helping to make the facility a key presenter of the performing arts in Western Canada.
Roger established the 'Friends of the Theatre Society' to foster and support the performing arts in the Cowichan Valley.
He was active on many volunteer boards such as the BC Touring Council, Canadian Association of Performing Arts (CAPA/COA) and his personal favourite, the Duncan Fringe Festival Society.
Roger will be sadly missed by his many friends in Canada and in Mexico where he spent the winter months in his retirement years. Details of a Celebration of Life, planned for spring, will be announced at a later date.