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AddBy: Paul Mulvaney28th Jun 2026 1:22AMDanny was a truly wonderful Marist man, as well as Greymouth Athletics-Life Member with his brother Colin, rugby league and it was a privilege to have known him well over the years in disability sports. His faith, warmth, and presence will be deeply missed by everyone on the West Coast and afar. We would share comms over the telephone, for the last time @ Christmas 2025.
His family are all in my thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. May Danny rest in eternal peace.
His family are all in my thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. May Danny rest in eternal peace.
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Danny Spark, Greymouth Athletics Club, obituary
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DescriptionDanny Spark, Greymouth Athletics Club, obituary.
Greymouth Senior Athletics Club:
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of long-time club stalwart Danny Sparks. He started as an athlete with the club in 1954 before transitioning into a coach and having success along the way. Notablbly with Para-Olympian Holly Robinson in her early career. Other highlights of the many athletes he coached include heptathlete Lyn Aben, shot putter Keith Barrow and javelin thrower Lesley Campbell. Around 1975, along with Val McGir, he set up and coached the Greymouth Junior Athletic Club which is still going strong today.
Along with his brother Colin, they spent many hours working on the grounds which are a poud testament to the volunteer hours he put in. RIP
Greymouth Senior Athletics Club:
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of long-time club stalwart Danny Sparks. He started as an athlete with the club in 1954 before transitioning into a coach and having success along the way. Notablbly with Para-Olympian Holly Robinson in her early career. Other highlights of the many athletes he coached include heptathlete Lyn Aben, shot putter Keith Barrow and javelin thrower Lesley Campbell. Around 1975, along with Val McGir, he set up and coached the Greymouth Junior Athletic Club which is still going strong today.
Along with his brother Colin, they spent many hours working on the grounds which are a poud testament to the volunteer hours he put in. RIP
From Facebook
CommentsKevin Williams
Danny his brother Colin and Arthur Fong were legends for the Greymouth Athletics club. During my time doing Athletics there, they were always at the Track making each training or meeting a success. RIP Danny.
4h
Reply
Ian Donaldson
Very sad to hear of Danny's passing. A West Coast icon did so much for sport and the community. Always had time for a beer and chat. RIP Danny
4h
Reply
Cary Collins
Greymouth were very fortunate to have this man, not forgetting Colin as well. A true legend.
4h
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Craig Stanton
Rest easy Danny! your race is done. A true gentleman who has given so much to so many
3h
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Paul Buchanan
Big loss to greymouth very humble man done so much for west coast sports and Colin together again rip danny
3h
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Olwyn Witton
Oh my gosh, this has bought tears to my eyes. He was an icon with the biggest heart, beautiful smile and dedicated soul to his sporting community.
Great Library user, so sad he won't get to see the inside of the new space. Going to miss seeing you out and about Danny.
Promoted to Glory and in our Lord's keeping. RIP my friend.
❤️??️?
4h
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Dax Curin
See you Danny. Thank you for caring for myself and those all around me.
4h
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Edited
Gary Mc Millan
a great man did endless hours at the greymouth athelectic club ,was a member of the Marist rugby league club him and colin used to look after players every sunday after the game he will be greatly missed RIP Danny .
4h
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Lewis Acker
Danny thanks for all them javelin sessions that advanced me to breaking school records and westcoast records your knowledge and presence will truely be missed a true (legend) R I P mate
4h
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Bronwyn Gray
A true Legend thank you for your hours at Anzac Park on a Saturday morning along with Colin you will be missed. RIP Sparky love from Laken Bronwyn n Chook ?
4h
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Donna Vincent
A real gentleman
Rest in peace
4h
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Sandra Ilton
He was a lovely man. Could remember all my times for sprints.
3h
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Ian Buchanan
RIP Danny Real coaster
3h
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Doreen Stanger
So very sorry to hear that sad news will miss him walking past always ready for a chat lovly gentleman will be sadly missed ?
4h
Reply
Lenny Crowe
Great coach Danny had him in rugby league and athletes and coached our kids at athletes done a lot for the coast rip mate
4h
Reply
Brian Reedy
So sad to hear this. Danny was always patient with the kids. Taught me how to sprint and throw the discus.
Enjoyed talking to him over the years, always remembered you.
4h
Reply
Lisa Holden
R.I.P Danny such a legend ❤️
4h
Reply
Anne McMillan Miller
A lovely guy. .RIP Danny ❤️
4h
Reply
Mary Fenemor
Rip Danny . ?A lovely Gentleman as was Colin . Condolences, from the Shrives Families
4h
Reply
Kevin Ford
He supported athletics in Hari Hari back in the late 60s, rest in peace Danny.
4h
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Michelle Gibson
RIP Dan the man. Thank you for everything you did for the kids athletics. I'll miss seeing you out and about on your walks. Love from the Gibsons xxx
4h
Reply
Diana Fahey
A great bloke who gave so much to the community RIP x
4h
Reply
Judy Fishburn
Sad news, he was a awesome guy willing to help out and have a yak.
You will always be remembered Danny.
RIL Danny.?
4h
Reply
Toni Farmer
Beautiful man , he trained me back in the day ?
4h
Reply
Karen Potter
Was a great Joker.
4h
Reply
Michele Buchanan
RIP
4h
Reply
Marie Bone
Sad news he was a lovely man. Worked hard for his community. Will be sadly missed.
4h
Reply
Dinelle Gerrard
Sad news
4h
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Noel Marie Batty
Sorry to hear of Danny’s passing. A true champion for athletics over a lifetime.
3h
Reply
Maree Nolan
So sorry to hear of Danny's passing,condolences to Mavis and all the family ....Maree Mehrtens we lived in cobden remember the spark family well...
3h
Reply
Julie Clemett
He was a great coach and a real gentleman. RIP Danny.
2h
Reply
Mary Prendergast
Danny was a blessing to our youth. He and Colin were relentless in running junior athletics every Saturday morning in the summer. ??
3h
Reply
Hayden Mahauariki
Great coaster, what a man! RIP sir!!
2h
Reply
Wendy Clark
Oh my goodness...am so sorry to read this news...my deepest sympathy to the Sparks family. Danny was really a great person at the Athletic Club.
4h
Reply
Sharon Best
R.I.P uncle Danny may the the angles be with you
4h
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Wendy Gilmour
So sad to see this , great man ?
3h
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Terry Jenkins
Very sad, rest easy Danny you earnt it
3h
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Jade Dalzell
RIP DANNY ??
4h
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Margaret Mulloy
So sad to hear RIP condolences to his family
4h
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Kiley Drake
R.I.P Danny you were a great mentor and roll model to all the athletes that came through the club. I still remember you standing at the 100m mark and yelling at me now go in my races.
4h
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Andy McNeish
Great man , sad that he has is gone ❤️
4h
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Trish Briggs
RIP Danny.
4h
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Bill Gardyne
Bloody sad nice guy
4h
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Bev Thompson
New Danny for a long time through athletics and even after if I ran into him in Greymouth he still remembered me was a great person
4h
Reply
Tracey Anderson
Danny was such a good man - vale Danny
3h
Reply
Russell Murphy
RIP Danny. So blessed to have had you as an influence in my life. Keen memories from Athletics and as a Cobden boy.
3h
Reply
Margaret Wilde
Awesome man.RIP Danny will always remember you with love
4h
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Cherish Rose
R.i.p Legend ✨️
4h
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Linda Neilson
A true gentleman and West Coast legend. RIP
4h
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Andrea McMillan
I remember Danny, Colin and Arthur from athletics back in the 80s. Brilliant people. Sorry to you all for your loss . I was never very good and certainly no natural talent ???? but they were always so encouraging and supportive 
3h
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Edited
Brian McIntyre
RIP Sparky
4h
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Glenda O'Donnell
RIP Danny what a nice man you was you ? will be sadly missed
3h
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Janis Farmer
Absolutely wonderful man RIP Dan the man .?
4h
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Kelvin Fisher
Like many young Coasters, was coached by Danny at ANZAC Park.
He gave so much to the club and the countless athletes he interacted.
Always enjoyed chatting to Danny whenever we crossed paths and he will missed by many
1h
Reply
Margaret Calder
An awesome coach and a stalwart for Greymouth athletics RIP
2h
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Warren Parkin
Danny, coached me. RIP, Danny.
2h
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Liz Reissmann
Danny was so cool.loved it when he came into The cooks pantry.A beautiful soul R.I.P ?
3h
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Deb Griffiths
Rip.a great man,who taught my kids how 2 run fast,xxoo
3h
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Kieran Kerry Keating
Rocked the hell out of me, hearing this tragic news. Dan and Colin, my cousins, were great in the athletics club, Dan, as a coach especially. He taught me heeps when I was competing in the 90s. I left in 2000 and returned to Tauranga for my son and daughter and subsequently my grands and now my great grands. Condolences to all the Spark family. RIP Dan.
2h
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Billy Daly
Great bloke did lots of work for the community
3h
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Trevor Pascoe
He was a Legend RIP?
4h
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Cheryl Pinn
RIP
Danny.
4h
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Pauline Schafer
This is sad news. Danny was such a talented coach and mentor to many, well respected in the community. It's hard to replace the dedication of guys like him. My condolences to his family.
4h
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Joycelyn Pulley
Such a gentleman, will be sorely missed in the athletic world.
RIP Danny ♥️?♥️
4h
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Laurie Anisy
Sad to hear of Danny’s passing.A member of a highly respected family.Will be sadly missed in the community.Rest In Peace Danny.
4h
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Bill Liddell
Great man
Inspirational contribution to athletics
1h
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Ron Olsen
RIP DANNY, a great guy and a Great League coach, Great times with Danny back in our school days for Marist
3h
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Phil N Deb Campbell
A dedicated and successful rugby league and athletics coach
And also a great neighbour to all of us staff at the Greymouth Car Centre
1h
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Rose Green
Danny you were a true legend RIP with Colin
So sad but another mighty fallen !!
1h
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Mary Costello
Coast Legend...A Real Good Bastard
Sincere Condolences To Danny's Family & Friends...I Will Miss Your Face & Our Street Chatter...RIP Dear Danny ❤️
1h
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Craig Crestani
Fond memories of those days as a youngster running two laps of ANZAC Park. Farewell you legend.
1h
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Lisa Teasdale
Condolences ?
2h
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Sandy Goodall
Saddened to hear that Danny has passed. My condolences to Danny's family
2h
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Tricia Reynolds
RIP Danny. Thank you for everything you did for the Greymouth Athletic club, including coaching me athletics. A real gentleman.
2h
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Trish Rennie
Been such a pleasure to know you Danny. You will be so missed by all who knew and loved you. RIP ?
2h
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Cherame Mossley
Awww RIP danny sparks.! Great coast man.
2h
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Del Godfrey
Omg - what a blow for the athletic club - such a lovely man - and a good coach, he certainly recognised talent! Never a bad word and always remembered my name -a very sad day for the coast - eternal rest be yours Danny ❤️
3h
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Jan Menzies
Oh RIP Danny... what a legend he was ♥️
3h
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Judy Smolen
RIP Danny
2h
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Murray Beckman
A wonderful Firth Street Cobden bloke. Coached League as well. So sorry to read of his passing.
3h
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Lyn Whittle
RIP Danny a great mentor & guy
2h
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Raewyn Taylor
Awww ,sad news ,RIP Danny ,a genuine west coast legend ....
3h
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Kerry Molloy
RIP Danny -another one of greymouths great characters gone to the big athletics track in the sky .condolences to all.
3h
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RichSandra Case
Rip Danny tops
2h
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Silena Ross
Rip Danny condolences to his family
3h
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Simon Williamson
RIP Danny - you helped shape the future of many a young athlete coming through the grades. Your passion for the sport, proper technique and repetition of drills had an enormous influence on me …. You were our coach, but you were also my athletics idol, teaching me everything I knew. You were a treasured man who’ll be missed greatly.
1h
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Dave Wakefield
RIP Danny a real loss to the youth of Greymouth such a dedicated man.
2h
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Bing Donaldson
A huge loss to our community RIP Danny
4h
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Stacey Campbell
he was one in a million...may you rest in peace danny
2h
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Mike Roberts
So sorry to hear that. Thoughts with the Spark family and friends.
3h
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Malakai Locharte
A beautiful person and ALWAYS the gentleman. You had a gorgeous smile and a great yarn. RIP Danny
2m
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Bill Nicholls
Great man, helped so many. Was an absolute pleasure to have known him. People like Danny come along and guide and help install so many of the good things in people’s lives. Help shape individuals and let them believe that anything is possible they also treat people the way you’d like to be treated. It’s people like Danny that install and pass on good values & inspired us to go forward and pay that forward. We aren’t the people we are today without people like Danny Spark in our lives. If I can leave 10% behind when I go of what Danny gave in his lifetime I’ll be a pretty happy man. RIP Danny your life made our lives better❤️
2m
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Donna Pentecost
Can some tell me how I can share this?
29m
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Donna Pentecost
Omg so sad to hear this news. He was the coach I ever had.
32m
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Julie Kilkelly
Such a lovely gentleman. RIP and join Colin at run club once again.
37m
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Jenny Boot
He q
Was a great guy and always interested in what those he had coached were up to even after they had retired from athletics. RIP Danny
45m
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Paulette Collins
Very sad to hear , a great man who trained me from the age of 5 till I was 14 , he will be missed ?
57m
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Vern Pattinson
I remember him well in my younger cycling days at the sports grounds with the runners
1h
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Mary Wood
Well done Danny. A great West Coaster.
1h
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Bidgie Jefferies
The Spark family produced the cream of the crop from Cobden. RIP Danny. Colin Jefferies
1h
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Bryan Jamieson
Danny was a hugely positive influence on so many young West Coasters. He had tremendous passion for athletics and always had time to assist competitors and administrators with his great knowledge and expertise. RIP Danny, you have earned your rest.
1h
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Pauline Naylor
R.I.P. Danny.
1h
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Mary Biddington
R I P Danny.
1h
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Alan Pegley
A legend Danny gave it all to the Greymouth athletes
1h
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Tony Vincent
A legend - they never die!!
2h
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Gaelyn Watson
RIP Danny
2h
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Alan Mosley
Remember him well.Still looks the same.
2h
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Phil Leach
RIP Danny ❤️
2h
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Raylene Atkinson
A real gentleman.
RIP Danny.
1h
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Colleen Cochrane
Rip Danny you were a worker and very busy man
19m
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Laura Mills Detlaff
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Danny Spark, Greymouth Athletics Club, obituary
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Danny Spark, Greymouth Athletics Club, obituary
Danny Spark, Greymouth Athletics Club, obituary
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Alan Quinn
RIP Danny..
2h
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John Greaney
Danny and brother Colin great Marist League men, from playing, running the tuckshop at Wingham Park to coaching.
Rest in Peace Danny.
2h
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Val McGowan
So sad to hear this he was a top bloke!
41m
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Natesha Ramsay
A great man with so much time given to the community. Especially the CCS special Olympics Training. Rest in peace Danny.
42m
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Ben Benjamin
A true legend R.I.P Sir.
Barry Helem
A very influential and supportive coach of so many of us in our younger years. Another of the 'stalwarts' from the 1970/80's era to pass - along with his brother Colin, Arthur Fong, Roy Williams, John O'Brien.
3h
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Jeanette Lake
Very sad news, what a great man he was. Ran my first race when i was five or six, then the club was held on the Greymouth High School grounds. Spend many hours picking out stones at the new club. He was a huge support and truly humble man. RIP.
3h
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Jeanette Lake
Very sas news
3h
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Rosie Sorenson
RIP Danny. I really appreciated his coaching at junior athletics. He was very dedicated and inspiring.
3h
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Chanel Rawlins
Sorry to hear of Danny's passing. Remember him training me when my sisters and i were younger.
5h
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Sandra Mike Moore
Whst a wonderful tribute. RIP.
5h
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Richard Buchanan
RIP Danny. A very kind, genuine and friendly bloke.
5h
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Pat Jock Allen
R I P Mate a true Gentleman and Good Friend to many
5h
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Tim Mora
Thoughts are with the Spark family at this time. Danny will be truly missed.
7h
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Tanya Boers
So sorry to hear about this awesome man. Danny Sparks a family friend and great coach. For ever in our heart s.
West coast a true man.
7h
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Gael Longshanks
Lovely kind man, so generous with his time. Rip Danny
7h
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Frank ODonnell
R I P GREAT MAN FOR THE TOWN
8h
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Judith Whitehead
Danny was a true gentleman and is a great loss to our community.
13h
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Colin Skates
A true legend of the West Coast, This humble carpenter always thought of others first. His blood ran green and gold for his beloved Greymouth Athletic Club and Marist Rugby league club. Danny was a man that deserved a Kings honour far more than some that have received this recognition. It will be a long time till we see his like again RIP Danny
14h
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Wayne Kemp
Great man RIP
16h
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Christine Farrell
Danny say hi to Colin xx RIP
16h
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John Blackmore
Sorry to hear of Danny's passing, he was a great guy who was always the same whenever you saw him and helped a lot of people over the years. R.I.P Dan.
16h
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Glen Campbell
He will be sadly missed
He wasn’t just sports, he was a true gentleman and all round good bloke
16h
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Rob Absalom
RIP Danny.
16h
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John Steel
Real cool man and good coach
17h
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Gavin Davy
Great Coaster.
17h
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Barbara Levick
So sad to hear of Danny’s passing I got to spend a lot of Saturday mornings at Anzac park watching Danny teaching the children how to run, throw a shotput, throw a discus the high jump, long jump and hop skip and jump. Thank you our knight in shining armour for sharing your talent with my daughter Sarsha and Holly who went further than everyone in their age group and if I tried to write about everyone else who he helped through the years it would take me the rest of my life to do him justice so Danny you are now with Colin and you are in GOD’S HOUSE may you have peace forever. AMEN
17h
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Grant Jamieson
R.I.P. Sparky,helped so many of us that were into Athletics, Great Man x
17h
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Che Norris
You were such a really nice man. May you rest in peace and bless your family. Amen. ??????.
17h
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Hayden Williams
What a Champion of a man, most of the advice I give my kids today is based on what Danny taught me. The only difference is my kids are way better than I ever was. Thanks for your commitment to us Danny.
17h
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Vikki Yeoman
Danny, Colin, John O’Brien and Arthur Fong did so much for athletics and young Coasters. I’ve never forgotten them. Deepest condolences to the family. ?
17h
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Cheryl Callard
A sad day
Danny was my coach for years
Knew how to bring the best out in his athletes
RIP DANNY
Cheryl Riley
17h
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Cheryl Callard
Omg
He was my athletic coach and took me to a top level on sprints and long jump
RIP DANNY
Xx
Cheryl Riley
Danny his brother Colin and Arthur Fong were legends for the Greymouth Athletics club. During my time doing Athletics there, they were always at the Track making each training or meeting a success. RIP Danny.
4h
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Ian Donaldson
Very sad to hear of Danny's passing. A West Coast icon did so much for sport and the community. Always had time for a beer and chat. RIP Danny
4h
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Cary Collins
Greymouth were very fortunate to have this man, not forgetting Colin as well. A true legend.
4h
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Craig Stanton
Rest easy Danny! your race is done. A true gentleman who has given so much to so many
3h
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Paul Buchanan
Big loss to greymouth very humble man done so much for west coast sports and Colin together again rip danny
3h
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Olwyn Witton
Oh my gosh, this has bought tears to my eyes. He was an icon with the biggest heart, beautiful smile and dedicated soul to his sporting community.
Great Library user, so sad he won't get to see the inside of the new space. Going to miss seeing you out and about Danny.
Promoted to Glory and in our Lord's keeping. RIP my friend.
❤️??️?
4h
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Dax Curin
See you Danny. Thank you for caring for myself and those all around me.
4h
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Edited
Gary Mc Millan
a great man did endless hours at the greymouth athelectic club ,was a member of the Marist rugby league club him and colin used to look after players every sunday after the game he will be greatly missed RIP Danny .
4h
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Lewis Acker
Danny thanks for all them javelin sessions that advanced me to breaking school records and westcoast records your knowledge and presence will truely be missed a true (legend) R I P mate
4h
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Bronwyn Gray
A true Legend thank you for your hours at Anzac Park on a Saturday morning along with Colin you will be missed. RIP Sparky love from Laken Bronwyn n Chook ?
4h
Reply
Donna Vincent
A real gentleman
Rest in peace
4h
Reply
Sandra Ilton
He was a lovely man. Could remember all my times for sprints.
3h
Reply
Ian Buchanan
RIP Danny Real coaster
3h
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Doreen Stanger
So very sorry to hear that sad news will miss him walking past always ready for a chat lovly gentleman will be sadly missed ?
4h
Reply
Lenny Crowe
Great coach Danny had him in rugby league and athletes and coached our kids at athletes done a lot for the coast rip mate
4h
Reply
Brian Reedy
So sad to hear this. Danny was always patient with the kids. Taught me how to sprint and throw the discus.
Enjoyed talking to him over the years, always remembered you.
4h
Reply
Lisa Holden
R.I.P Danny such a legend ❤️
4h
Reply
Anne McMillan Miller
A lovely guy. .RIP Danny ❤️
4h
Reply
Mary Fenemor
Rip Danny . ?A lovely Gentleman as was Colin . Condolences, from the Shrives Families
4h
Reply
Kevin Ford
He supported athletics in Hari Hari back in the late 60s, rest in peace Danny.
4h
Reply
Michelle Gibson
RIP Dan the man. Thank you for everything you did for the kids athletics. I'll miss seeing you out and about on your walks. Love from the Gibsons xxx
4h
Reply
Diana Fahey
A great bloke who gave so much to the community RIP x
4h
Reply
Judy Fishburn
Sad news, he was a awesome guy willing to help out and have a yak.
You will always be remembered Danny.
RIL Danny.?
4h
Reply
Toni Farmer
Beautiful man , he trained me back in the day ?
4h
Reply
Karen Potter
Was a great Joker.
4h
Reply
Michele Buchanan
RIP
4h
Reply
Marie Bone
Sad news he was a lovely man. Worked hard for his community. Will be sadly missed.
4h
Reply
Dinelle Gerrard
Sad news
4h
Reply
Noel Marie Batty
Sorry to hear of Danny’s passing. A true champion for athletics over a lifetime.
3h
Reply
Maree Nolan
So sorry to hear of Danny's passing,condolences to Mavis and all the family ....Maree Mehrtens we lived in cobden remember the spark family well...
3h
Reply
Julie Clemett
He was a great coach and a real gentleman. RIP Danny.
2h
Reply
Mary Prendergast
Danny was a blessing to our youth. He and Colin were relentless in running junior athletics every Saturday morning in the summer. ??
3h
Reply
Hayden Mahauariki
Great coaster, what a man! RIP sir!!
2h
Reply
Wendy Clark
Oh my goodness...am so sorry to read this news...my deepest sympathy to the Sparks family. Danny was really a great person at the Athletic Club.
4h
Reply
Sharon Best
R.I.P uncle Danny may the the angles be with you
4h
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Wendy Gilmour
So sad to see this , great man ?
3h
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Terry Jenkins
Very sad, rest easy Danny you earnt it
3h
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Jade Dalzell
RIP DANNY ??
4h
Reply
Margaret Mulloy
So sad to hear RIP condolences to his family
4h
Reply
Kiley Drake
R.I.P Danny you were a great mentor and roll model to all the athletes that came through the club. I still remember you standing at the 100m mark and yelling at me now go in my races.
4h
Reply
Andy McNeish
Great man , sad that he has is gone ❤️
4h
Reply
Trish Briggs
RIP Danny.
4h
Reply
Bill Gardyne
Bloody sad nice guy
4h
Reply
Bev Thompson
New Danny for a long time through athletics and even after if I ran into him in Greymouth he still remembered me was a great person
4h
Reply
Tracey Anderson
Danny was such a good man - vale Danny
3h
Reply
Russell Murphy
RIP Danny. So blessed to have had you as an influence in my life. Keen memories from Athletics and as a Cobden boy.
3h
Reply
Margaret Wilde
Awesome man.RIP Danny will always remember you with love
4h
Reply
Cherish Rose
R.i.p Legend ✨️
4h
Reply
Linda Neilson
A true gentleman and West Coast legend. RIP
4h
Reply
Andrea McMillan
I remember Danny, Colin and Arthur from athletics back in the 80s. Brilliant people. Sorry to you all for your loss . I was never very good and certainly no natural talent ???? but they were always so encouraging and supportive 
3h
Reply
Edited
Brian McIntyre
RIP Sparky
4h
Reply
Glenda O'Donnell
RIP Danny what a nice man you was you ? will be sadly missed
3h
Reply
Janis Farmer
Absolutely wonderful man RIP Dan the man .?
4h
Reply
Kelvin Fisher
Like many young Coasters, was coached by Danny at ANZAC Park.
He gave so much to the club and the countless athletes he interacted.
Always enjoyed chatting to Danny whenever we crossed paths and he will missed by many
1h
Reply
Margaret Calder
An awesome coach and a stalwart for Greymouth athletics RIP
2h
Reply
Warren Parkin
Danny, coached me. RIP, Danny.
2h
Reply
Liz Reissmann
Danny was so cool.loved it when he came into The cooks pantry.A beautiful soul R.I.P ?
3h
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Deb Griffiths
Rip.a great man,who taught my kids how 2 run fast,xxoo
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Kieran Kerry Keating
Rocked the hell out of me, hearing this tragic news. Dan and Colin, my cousins, were great in the athletics club, Dan, as a coach especially. He taught me heeps when I was competing in the 90s. I left in 2000 and returned to Tauranga for my son and daughter and subsequently my grands and now my great grands. Condolences to all the Spark family. RIP Dan.
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Billy Daly
Great bloke did lots of work for the community
3h
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Trevor Pascoe
He was a Legend RIP?
4h
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Cheryl Pinn
RIP
Danny.
4h
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Pauline Schafer
This is sad news. Danny was such a talented coach and mentor to many, well respected in the community. It's hard to replace the dedication of guys like him. My condolences to his family.
4h
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Joycelyn Pulley
Such a gentleman, will be sorely missed in the athletic world.
RIP Danny ♥️?♥️
4h
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Laurie Anisy
Sad to hear of Danny’s passing.A member of a highly respected family.Will be sadly missed in the community.Rest In Peace Danny.
4h
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Bill Liddell
Great man
Inspirational contribution to athletics
1h
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Ron Olsen
RIP DANNY, a great guy and a Great League coach, Great times with Danny back in our school days for Marist
3h
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Phil N Deb Campbell
A dedicated and successful rugby league and athletics coach
And also a great neighbour to all of us staff at the Greymouth Car Centre
1h
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Rose Green
Danny you were a true legend RIP with Colin
So sad but another mighty fallen !!
1h
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Mary Costello
Coast Legend...A Real Good Bastard
Sincere Condolences To Danny's Family & Friends...I Will Miss Your Face & Our Street Chatter...RIP Dear Danny ❤️
1h
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Craig Crestani
Fond memories of those days as a youngster running two laps of ANZAC Park. Farewell you legend.
1h
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Lisa Teasdale
Condolences ?
2h
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Sandy Goodall
Saddened to hear that Danny has passed. My condolences to Danny's family
2h
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Tricia Reynolds
RIP Danny. Thank you for everything you did for the Greymouth Athletic club, including coaching me athletics. A real gentleman.
2h
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Trish Rennie
Been such a pleasure to know you Danny. You will be so missed by all who knew and loved you. RIP ?
2h
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Cherame Mossley
Awww RIP danny sparks.! Great coast man.
2h
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Del Godfrey
Omg - what a blow for the athletic club - such a lovely man - and a good coach, he certainly recognised talent! Never a bad word and always remembered my name -a very sad day for the coast - eternal rest be yours Danny ❤️
3h
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Jan Menzies
Oh RIP Danny... what a legend he was ♥️
3h
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Judy Smolen
RIP Danny
2h
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Murray Beckman
A wonderful Firth Street Cobden bloke. Coached League as well. So sorry to read of his passing.
3h
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Lyn Whittle
RIP Danny a great mentor & guy
2h
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Raewyn Taylor
Awww ,sad news ,RIP Danny ,a genuine west coast legend ....
3h
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Kerry Molloy
RIP Danny -another one of greymouths great characters gone to the big athletics track in the sky .condolences to all.
3h
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RichSandra Case
Rip Danny tops
2h
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Silena Ross
Rip Danny condolences to his family
3h
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Simon Williamson
RIP Danny - you helped shape the future of many a young athlete coming through the grades. Your passion for the sport, proper technique and repetition of drills had an enormous influence on me …. You were our coach, but you were also my athletics idol, teaching me everything I knew. You were a treasured man who’ll be missed greatly.
1h
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Dave Wakefield
RIP Danny a real loss to the youth of Greymouth such a dedicated man.
2h
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Bing Donaldson
A huge loss to our community RIP Danny
4h
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Stacey Campbell
he was one in a million...may you rest in peace danny
2h
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Mike Roberts
So sorry to hear that. Thoughts with the Spark family and friends.
3h
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Malakai Locharte
A beautiful person and ALWAYS the gentleman. You had a gorgeous smile and a great yarn. RIP Danny
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Bill Nicholls
Great man, helped so many. Was an absolute pleasure to have known him. People like Danny come along and guide and help install so many of the good things in people’s lives. Help shape individuals and let them believe that anything is possible they also treat people the way you’d like to be treated. It’s people like Danny that install and pass on good values & inspired us to go forward and pay that forward. We aren’t the people we are today without people like Danny Spark in our lives. If I can leave 10% behind when I go of what Danny gave in his lifetime I’ll be a pretty happy man. RIP Danny your life made our lives better❤️
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Donna Pentecost
Can some tell me how I can share this?
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Donna Pentecost
Omg so sad to hear this news. He was the coach I ever had.
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Julie Kilkelly
Such a lovely gentleman. RIP and join Colin at run club once again.
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Jenny Boot
He q
Was a great guy and always interested in what those he had coached were up to even after they had retired from athletics. RIP Danny
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Paulette Collins
Very sad to hear , a great man who trained me from the age of 5 till I was 14 , he will be missed ?
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Vern Pattinson
I remember him well in my younger cycling days at the sports grounds with the runners
1h
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Mary Wood
Well done Danny. A great West Coaster.
1h
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Bidgie Jefferies
The Spark family produced the cream of the crop from Cobden. RIP Danny. Colin Jefferies
1h
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Bryan Jamieson
Danny was a hugely positive influence on so many young West Coasters. He had tremendous passion for athletics and always had time to assist competitors and administrators with his great knowledge and expertise. RIP Danny, you have earned your rest.
1h
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Pauline Naylor
R.I.P. Danny.
1h
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Mary Biddington
R I P Danny.
1h
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Alan Pegley
A legend Danny gave it all to the Greymouth athletes
1h
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Tony Vincent
A legend - they never die!!
2h
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Gaelyn Watson
RIP Danny
2h
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Alan Mosley
Remember him well.Still looks the same.
2h
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Phil Leach
RIP Danny ❤️
2h
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Raylene Atkinson
A real gentleman.
RIP Danny.
1h
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Colleen Cochrane
Rip Danny you were a worker and very busy man
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Laura Mills Detlaff
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Danny Spark, Greymouth Athletics Club, obituary
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Danny Spark, Greymouth Athletics Club, obituary
Danny Spark, Greymouth Athletics Club, obituary
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Alan Quinn
RIP Danny..
2h
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John Greaney
Danny and brother Colin great Marist League men, from playing, running the tuckshop at Wingham Park to coaching.
Rest in Peace Danny.
2h
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Val McGowan
So sad to hear this he was a top bloke!
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Natesha Ramsay
A great man with so much time given to the community. Especially the CCS special Olympics Training. Rest in peace Danny.
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Ben Benjamin
A true legend R.I.P Sir.
Barry Helem
A very influential and supportive coach of so many of us in our younger years. Another of the 'stalwarts' from the 1970/80's era to pass - along with his brother Colin, Arthur Fong, Roy Williams, John O'Brien.
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Jeanette Lake
Very sad news, what a great man he was. Ran my first race when i was five or six, then the club was held on the Greymouth High School grounds. Spend many hours picking out stones at the new club. He was a huge support and truly humble man. RIP.
3h
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Jeanette Lake
Very sas news
3h
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Rosie Sorenson
RIP Danny. I really appreciated his coaching at junior athletics. He was very dedicated and inspiring.
3h
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Chanel Rawlins
Sorry to hear of Danny's passing. Remember him training me when my sisters and i were younger.
5h
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Sandra Mike Moore
Whst a wonderful tribute. RIP.
5h
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Richard Buchanan
RIP Danny. A very kind, genuine and friendly bloke.
5h
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Pat Jock Allen
R I P Mate a true Gentleman and Good Friend to many
5h
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Tim Mora
Thoughts are with the Spark family at this time. Danny will be truly missed.
7h
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Tanya Boers
So sorry to hear about this awesome man. Danny Sparks a family friend and great coach. For ever in our heart s.
West coast a true man.
7h
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Gael Longshanks
Lovely kind man, so generous with his time. Rip Danny
7h
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Frank ODonnell
R I P GREAT MAN FOR THE TOWN
8h
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Judith Whitehead
Danny was a true gentleman and is a great loss to our community.
13h
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Colin Skates
A true legend of the West Coast, This humble carpenter always thought of others first. His blood ran green and gold for his beloved Greymouth Athletic Club and Marist Rugby league club. Danny was a man that deserved a Kings honour far more than some that have received this recognition. It will be a long time till we see his like again RIP Danny
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Wayne Kemp
Great man RIP
16h
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Christine Farrell
Danny say hi to Colin xx RIP
16h
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John Blackmore
Sorry to hear of Danny's passing, he was a great guy who was always the same whenever you saw him and helped a lot of people over the years. R.I.P Dan.
16h
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Glen Campbell
He will be sadly missed
He wasn’t just sports, he was a true gentleman and all round good bloke
16h
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Rob Absalom
RIP Danny.
16h
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John Steel
Real cool man and good coach
17h
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Gavin Davy
Great Coaster.
17h
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Barbara Levick
So sad to hear of Danny’s passing I got to spend a lot of Saturday mornings at Anzac park watching Danny teaching the children how to run, throw a shotput, throw a discus the high jump, long jump and hop skip and jump. Thank you our knight in shining armour for sharing your talent with my daughter Sarsha and Holly who went further than everyone in their age group and if I tried to write about everyone else who he helped through the years it would take me the rest of my life to do him justice so Danny you are now with Colin and you are in GOD’S HOUSE may you have peace forever. AMEN
17h
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Grant Jamieson
R.I.P. Sparky,helped so many of us that were into Athletics, Great Man x
17h
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Che Norris
You were such a really nice man. May you rest in peace and bless your family. Amen. ??????.
17h
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Hayden Williams
What a Champion of a man, most of the advice I give my kids today is based on what Danny taught me. The only difference is my kids are way better than I ever was. Thanks for your commitment to us Danny.
17h
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Vikki Yeoman
Danny, Colin, John O’Brien and Arthur Fong did so much for athletics and young Coasters. I’ve never forgotten them. Deepest condolences to the family. ?
17h
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Cheryl Callard
A sad day
Danny was my coach for years
Knew how to bring the best out in his athletes
RIP DANNY
Cheryl Riley
17h
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Cheryl Callard
Omg
He was my athletic coach and took me to a top level on sprints and long jump
RIP DANNY
Xx
Cheryl Riley
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West Coast New Zealand History (27th Jun 2026). Danny Spark, Greymouth Athletics Club, obituary. In Website West Coast New Zealand History. Retrieved 9th Oct 2026 02:02, from https://westcoast.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/36328