It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Douglas Steven Sparling, 61, of Kansas City, MO. He will be remembered as a talented artist and fearless speaker about living with cancer.
Born in Iowa City, IA, Doug entered the world on April 23, 1960. He was the son of William E. Sparling and Marilyn Sparling Boyd.
The family moved to Warrensburg in 1961 when his father took a position at Central Missouri State College (now the University of Central Missouri) and his mother began her career in education. Staying close to family, Doug attended the University of Central Missouri (formally Central Missouri State University), receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Electricity and Electronics Technology.
At a very early age, Doug developed a passion and talent for music. Whether the guitar, pennywhistle, bagpipes, mandolin, drums, saxophone, piano, or keyboard, there wasn't a musical instrument he couldn't play. Interested in many styles, Doug particularly enjoyed playing Celtic tunes, contemporary instrumental, and rock. His music has been placed in music production libraries in the US and the UK.
He composed music for soundtracks to indie films and recorded with The Elders, Eddie Delahunt, The Hollow Men, and Mr. Smith. In 2005, Doug recorded a solo album, dubbed 'Stray Onto The Path.'

Doug added photography to his many talents in recent years. During his daily lunch walks, he started to focus on documenting the various historical buildings and interesting architecture of downtown Kansas City, MO and extended his focus to his hometown, Warrensburg, MO. Doug was known for experimenting in the Painterly Fauvism style of photography and published his works in the book, 'Painterly Photography: Vol 1', in 2015.
In addition to his creative projects, Doug was a valued employee of Andrews McMeel Universal. He worked for the world-renowned multimedia publisher for 20 years as a software developer/architect.
Doug thrived at the company, becoming the go-to person for new technology. He loved being able to have a role that allowed him to always be learning and challenging his mind. It was bittersweet when Doug retired in 2020, leaving behind a place he enjoyed and friends he cherished.
The retirement came three years after Doug found out he had cancer, a diagnosis that propelled him to dedicate his life to living with dignity and grace. He spoke and wrote about his cancer journey, becoming a cancer patient research advocate, and his work with the Patient and Investigator Voices Organizing Together (PIVOT) program at the University of Kansas Cancer Center.
His number one message was: Keep Living! "I'm living each day with purpose! I won't say cancer is a gift, but it has brought many good things my way," Doug would say. The family's Tibetan Terrier rescue, Gandalf, became his constant companion, helping him during those tough days and boosting his feel-good outlook.

Doug's fighting spirit touched countless hearts. He knew life was short and reminded us to cherish each day. Doug had a great love for life, Doctor Who, and flat white coffee. Cheers to you, Doug!

Doug is survived by his wife Kim Sparling, son Shea Sparling, daughters Helen and Sara Sparling, stepson Dylan Bumpas, sister Cooper Alexander, and stepfather Robert (Bob) Boyd.
He is preceded in death by his father William E. Sparling, and mother Marilyn Sparling Boyd.
In lieu of flowers, Doug wishes donations be made in his memory to the University of Kansas Cancer Center, https://www.kucancercenter.org/.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, 23 September from 5-7pm at Sweeney-Phillips &Holdren Funeral Home in Warrensburg, MO for visitation.
The funeral service will be held on Friday, 24 September at 11am at Sweeney-Phillips & Holdren Funeral Home with Father Tim Sawchak officiating.
Interment will follow at Warrensburg Memorial Gardens Cemetery