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Nigel Sparks Obituary
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Nigel graduated from Parkdale High School in Toronto and was recruited thereafter to play soccer at Penn State. He also represented the Canadian National Men's Soccer Team in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. He continued his education at Hahnemann where he earned his medical degree. He completed his Orthopaedics residency in Baltimore, where he met his wife. Nigel started his career as an Orthopaedic Surgeon of Sports Medicine in Florida and covered many high school, college and pro teams. He enjoyed his years covering the Jacksonville Jaguars and was elated to land his dream job with the Seattle Sounders. His most recent position brought him back to State College, home of Penn State.
Nigel enjoyed all sports, across all levels of competition. He was also an avid gamer; a recent Pokémon go addict and loved his cars. But above all else, he loved his family and friends, with fierce loyalty and generosity.
Nigel is survived by his wife, Sarah Sparks of Port Matilda, two sons, Ethan and Hunter Sparks, and one daughter, Zooey Sparks, his mother in law, HeeJum Byun, father in law, WooShik Byun, brother, Freddy Sparks, two sisters, Derrel Medera and Maggie Sparks, brother in laws, John Medera, Young Byun, and sister in law, Ivy Byun.
Nigel was preceded in death by his mother and grandparents.
A memorial service for Dr. Nigel Sparks will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 10:00 am at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, 820 Westerly Park Way, State College, PA 16801 with Father George Jakopac officiating. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. & Victorian Crematory, Bellefonte.
Online condolences may be made to the family at wetzlerfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
10 Entries
Tracy Campbell
September 26, 2025
Nigel Sparks you will never ever be forgotten! Your family will love and cherish you forever. I thank God for all the amazing memories I have of you . Our hearts are aching but we know how many Angels you have up there With you in Heaven! In God's hands now, Rest in Peace
Theron Adams
September 24, 2025
Thank you for all the memories, laughter and adventurous times growing up in Parkdale. This is not goodbye, this is until we meet again Nigel. R.I.E.P BROTHER.
Parker Sparks Jr.
September 24, 2025
One of my oldest cousins, I wish I knew you better but either way I will miss you, sending love to your family. May you Rest Easy Gelly
Dane Pilgrim
September 24, 2025
My deepest condolences to the Sparks family. Much love and support for his loyal, supportive and caring brother, Freddy!
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Larry sparks
September 24, 2025
My condolences to the family
Michele Sparks
September 24, 2025
My deepest sympathy to the family. It was beautiful to see Nigel last year at Phyillis wedding and I would follow him on Facebook, enjoying all his travels with his family. He will be missed Take care family from Michele Sparks and family, cousin.
Desiree Sparks
September 24, 2025
Rest in Peace Dr. Sparks. You were a true inspiration to me and so many others coming from small town Lake Loon, Cherry Brook. Sad I never got the chance to meet you. Sending my deepest condolences to your wife and children. God Bless.
Anita Sparks
September 24, 2025
My condolences to the family
Leda Whynder
September 24, 2025
Our deepest condolences to Sarah and the kids (Ethan, Zooey and Hunter) as well as extended family. So very sorry for your loss. Nigel was a brilliant soul. Sending prayers and many good vibes as you carry on. God is with you. Love and blessings.
From Cousin Leda and Tyson Whynder (Sparks Family)
Mady
September 23, 2025
Condolences to the entire Family. Rest in sweet peace Nigel.
Love and peace.
Rickey and Mady Howe
Dartmouth NS Canada
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