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BORN
1974
DIED
2022
Brian Sparling Obituary
August 3, 1974 - January 24, 2022. Lifelong Oakland resident, dyed-in-the-wool A's fan, worked 24 years for Alameda County Sheriff's Department in animal control. Dog whisperer, loving and devoted friend, son, brother and uncle. Survived by parents William and Katharine, brothers Scott and Kent, sister-in-law Vanessa, and nephews and niece Felix, Finn and Sophie. He will be deeply missed by the many people and animals whose lives he touched and with whom he shared a story and his infectious laugh.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday March 12 at 2pm, St Clement's Episcopal Church, 2738 Claremont Boulevard, Berkeley, CA
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a favorite animal fund or shelter in Brian's memory.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Brian Sparling
3 Entries
Erica
June 19, 2025
Brian was a dear friend. We met back in 2002 while volunteering at the Fairmont Animal Shelter and quickly formed a close bond. He introduced me to new music, new experiences-my first venison steak was with him-and he had an undeniable love for animals. We shared so many great memories. Though life took us in different directions and we lost touch after I moved to the East Coast, I´m devastated to hear of his passing. He was taken far too soon and will always hold a special place in my heart.
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Joanne Greer
September 5, 2022
I just learned of Brian´s passing. He was a great guy with a huge heart for animals. I met him at Fairmont when he was just a young officer. I had to have my old Rottweiler euthanized due to severe cancer. Brian was the officer who´s job it was to do it. He was so kind and gentle with my dog. I´ll never forget it. I´m sure his big heart will be missed by everyone who knew him.
Cindy Jung. ACSO
March 3, 2022
Saddened to hear. Brian was always a joy, loved his work and was always so helpful at the Fairmont shelter. Rescued a kitten that was stuck in the engine block of a patrol car parked in their lot. My arm was the smallest. After getting it out, it was too young to stay at the shelter. Brian said take her home and bring her back in a month! We will give you all the food. Yeah right, like that´s going to happen! He smiled and proceeded to name her Cruiser....we still have Cruiser! Rest In Peace my friend. Condolences to his family...he was truly a gem!
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