Louis John Sparks

The family of Louis John Sparks of St Margaret’s Bay, NS is saddened to announce his passing on January 3, 2023, at the age of 72 years. Louis (Lou) came from a loving family having grown up in Saint John, NB. He had a contagious zest for life and a from a young age a deep passion for music. He was a talented drummer and moved to the UK at the age of 19, where he became a founding member of the band, The Hollywood Brats. It was also here that he met the love of his life, Linda. Lou and Linda married and settled back in the Maritimes, eventually to the St Margaret’s Bay area, which they called home for the past forty years. Lou began a long and successful career in the auto industry and soon welcomed their first child, Jesse (aka Dash Rip-Rock) and a few years later, brother Kyle (aka Dash Rip-Rock the 2nd). Lou was a dedicated, loving and hands-on father. He passed on many life skills and a deep passion for music to his sons, who also carry on Lou’s appreciation for hard work, loyalty and family. Lou’s personality was warm and inviting and could instantly make anyone feel welcome. He was a legendary storyteller, and on rare occasions, shared tales of his adventures of the 1970’s London rock scene that were almost too good to believe. He was down to earth, viciously funny and liked his G & T just so - tall glass, two ice cubes. Being a grandfather came naturally to Lou. Like with his sons, Lou always demonstrated an incredible ability to teach and be patient. His grandkids loved to tell Lou about their interests, enjoyed grampy hugs and would show off their new beats on grampy’s drums any chance they could get. His time spent with them was impactful and will be cherished by them and their families. Through the years, Lou had many health struggles, but persevered time and time again often against the odds. He was grateful for the support and care he received, particularly at the QEII Heart Clinic and from his family doctor, Dr. Holly Zwicker. In recent years, the support from Closing the Gap homecare enabled him to enjoy a life at home and Lou thought of many of the staff as friends. The most cherished jewel of Lou’s life was his soulmate and wife Linda, who provided him with the unwavering support that could only come from the truest love. Whether it was moving across the Atlantic Ocean, or enjoying a cup of tea together, they were partners for all of it. Their love and commitment to one another continues to be inspirational to all who are close to them. Lou is survived by his wife, Linda; their children Jesse (Erin) Sparks and Kyle (Suzanne) Sparks; grandchildren, Kieran, Theo, Wiley, Sunny and Ari; his sisters Linda (Lloyd) Garnhum and Karen Anne (David) Alchorn and brother Gary (Patricia) Sparks. He is predeceased by his parents John and Joan Sparks. The family has plans to gather privately and will hold a celebration of Lou’s life at a later date. In Lou’s memory, donations can be made to the Nova Scotia Food Bank, or the Heart and Stroke Foundation. “And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.” - the Beatles

Louis John Sparks

August 15, 1950 - January 3, 2023