Rooted in a proud Fernie tradition of care, the Sparling East Medical Centre carries forward the legacy of its founder, Dr. William Henry Sparling East. Born in 1912, Dr. Sparling East served with the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps during the Second World War before settling in Fernie, where his compassionate family practice flourished for an extraordinary 46 years. From 1945 to 1991, he became a cornerstone of healthcare in the Elk Valley — known for his dedication to patients, leadership in community organizations, and unwavering service to the Fernie District Hospital and surrounding region.

Beyond medicine, Dr. Sparling East gave generously to his community. He served as president of the Fernie Legion, Rotary Club, and Scout District, and held leadership roles within the East Kootenay Medical Association, B.C. Coroner’s Association, and local hospital boards. He even lent his medical expertise to the Elk Valley Blazers senior men’s hockey team, where his steady presence behind the bench became a symbol of community spirit.

Today, that spirit continues through a team of dedicated family physicians and medical professionals who share his commitment to patient-centred, community-based healthcare. The clinic has grown into a modern, busy practice serving Fernie families of all ages, providing compassionate, detailed care tailored to each individual.

Surrounded by the mountains Dr. Sparling East loved, the clinic remains true to its roots — a place where medicine meets community, and where every patient is treated with respect, kindness, and the same dedication that defined Dr. Sparling East’s life’s work.