Official Recognition
As well, the NCC recognized Sparks' key contribution to the park, albeit belatedly, when it dedicated the Roderick Percy Sparks Exhibition Hall at an official ceremony in the park's visitors centre on July 8, 2005. Speaking on that occasion, Sparks' grandson, Sandy Crawley, recalled memories of his grandfather:
"One of the lessons I learned from my grandfather, whom we called Pop, was that you have to fight for what you believe in. Pop understood that parks like this one don’t get started on their own He knew that it sometimes takes a little arm twisting to get things done."
"Pop also taught me when I was very young that if I was ever worried or agitated or upset, I could always go into the woods and I was surrounded by nature, which was really my best friend. He taught me that when I was four years old and it still serves me now that I’m 57. The park is a testament to that set of values and to his profound appreciation for nature."
Words from his eldest granddaughter, Ms. Michal Anne Crawley, were also spoken during the dedication ceremony:
"Pop gave us an appreciation for nature and a heritage which, even if we live in cities, can never be taken away. It is in our blood. And in our family’s particular blood are the Gatineau Hills, thanks to him. We hope Gatineau Park will continue to give that heritage to all who visit. It is a special place, one to be cherished and taken care of."
His grandson, Rod Crawley, also related vivid impressions of Percy Sparks:
“I remember holding his hand, being led on walks along well-worn paths, made by him, listening to and witnessing the unfolding natural world. What especially struck me as a child were the animals of the forest and the relationship they have with each other, and with the forces of nature, which I was able to witness on a daily basis.
“Pop built a wonderful set of swings at ‘Stone Acres,’ his farm on the Meech Lake Road. The ropes were so long we could touch the leaves of the tall maples with our toes – like flying, if only for an instant.
“He built a dam on one of the creeks that ran through the property and created a small pond on which we skated with joy each winter. He built a barn, and chicken house. The barn had a tin roof. To be inside it, and hear the rain on the tin roof was one of our coziest feelings.”
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