ENA M. BROOKS (SPARLING)

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ENA M. BROOKS (nee SPARLING) Ena Brooks passed away peacefully at Middlechurch Home of Winnipeg on November 27, 2002. Ena Sparling was born in Oak River, MB, on April 19, 1909. She was the last surviving member of the family of George and Florence Sparling, early settlers in the Oak River district. Upon finishing school in Oak River, Ena completed a business course in Winnipeg and joined Radio Oil Co. as an executive secretary where she met her future husband and best friend, Mel Brooks. They were married in 1937. Ena and Mel lived in Victoria and Halifax during the Second World War, where Mel served in the Royal Canadian Navy. At the end of the war, they returned to Winnipeg where Mel served in a senior capacity with the Department of Veteran Affairs. Ena and Mel lived in the St. James area until Mels passing in 1972. In addition to her husband Mel, Ena was predeceased by her siblings and their spouses, Muriel Beaton (Cliff), Leila Plowman (Bert), Clair Sparling (Gladys) and nephew Bob Beaton. She will be missed by her nieces, Janet Sampson and Diane Chartrand (Paul) and family Dan (Jackie) and Leila, all of whom she had a special relationship with over many years. She will also be remembered by Jackie Beaton, cousin Mary Hoare (Bob) and niece and nephews, Lois Armstrong (Art), Gerry Sparling, Dennis Sparling (Susan), Bill Sparling (Linda), and their families, as well as the McLeod family and friend Tee Somers. Although she had no children of her own, Ena was a longtime and generous supporter of numerous foster children throughout the world. Her generosity was also apparent in the support of countless local and national charities, her volunteer work and her participation in the activities of McClure United Church. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 30 at 12:30 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave. No flowers please. Donations in Enas memory may be made to McClure United Church, Middlechurch Home of Winnipeg, or a charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CEMETERY AND CREMATORIUM 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 30, 2002