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Dr. Grace Margaret Patten Sparkes
Dr. Grace Sparkes passed peacefully away at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital
on Sunday, March 9, 2003, aged 95 years. Along with her many contributions
to the social, political and cultural life of Newfoundland and Labrador,
Dr. Sparkes had a long affiliation with Memorial, beginning in 1929 when
she attended teacher training at Memorial University College. She was
a founding member of Memorial University's alumni association in the 1970s
and served as chair of the first major alumni reunion in 1975. In 1974
she was appointed to the university's Board of Regents, serving until
1986. She was named alumna of the year for 1986. In 1992 she was awarded
an honorary degree from Memorial. Predeceased by her husband Dr. J. C.
Sparkes. Leaving to cherish her memory are her daughter Doris and husband
Dr. Bill Cohen and a large circle of relatives and friends. In lieu of
flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Memorial University
of Newfoundland, or a charity of one’s choice.