In Celebration of

Douglas Sparrow

June 23, 1938 -  July 29, 2021

SPARROW, Douglas Alan - Died peacefully in Toronto on Thursday, July 29, 2021 at the age of 83. Doug was one of three children born to Alan and Mildred Sparrow, on June 23, 1938 in the Weston neighbourhood of Toronto. He is predeceased by his wife, Moira, and brother Don, and survived by his younger sister, Diane (Geiselmann of Germany). Doug began his long career in the insurance industry at age 19, working for the Western Insurance Company, and then as an independent insurance broker, ending his career with Heart Lake Insurance. It was at the Western Insurance Company that he met many lifelong friends and his future wife Moira. Doug married his bride on August 5, 1961 and together they built a full life, always putting their family first. Doug also spent many years coaching Little League baseball in High Park and was an active member of the Toronto West End YMCA for decades. He will be greatly missed by daughter Heather and son-in-law David Wilson, of Connecticut, as well as son Robert and daughter-in-law Dawn Biljetina, of Toronto. Doug is remembered by his children for his big personality, funny jokes, his love for all sports and the importance he put on his family, especially shown towards his beloved granddaughters, Rachel and Claire Wilson. Doug was known for his outgoing personality and generous nature, which resulted in him having a wide group of friends from all areas of his life. He was a brave man who faced the struggles of his recent illness with dignity and he cherished every moment with his family and friends. Due to current gathering restrictions, a celebration of Doug's life is being postponed. Further details will follow. If desired, please make a donation in memory of Doug to the Toronto West End YMCA.

Guestbook 

(5 of 6)


Jeanie Bennie (Friend)

Entered July 31, 2021 from Toronto

Rob, Heather and family. So very sorry for your loss.

I was sad to hear of Doug's passing but glad that I had a chance to chat with him recently. As usual he asked about the old Gino's crowd and we shared a few stories from the good old days. I met Doug in my teens but got to know him and Moira better when we got together for sporting events or many of the get togethers at Gino's. He was a proud Canadian and showed it numerous times when breaking out in song to "O Canada"... He still had his sense of humour and wits about him because he reminded me I still owed him a dinner from a bet we made over 10 years ago.... we had a good chuckle over that one. Rest in peace Doug, until we meet again my friend...
Jeanie

Barry & Jan Licastro (insurance colleague)

Entered August 1, 2021 from Mississauga

Our sympathies to the Sparrow family. Doug during his time at the Western Assurance Co. and a field rep, called insurance offices. Always with a joke and friendly conversation., and a great hospitality host during the annual conventions. He was like by everyone. RIP Doug

Ed Martins (Ymca colleague)

Entered August 3, 2021 from Toronto

May you R.I.P. Doug Sparrow

Bob & Sheri Jackson (Friend)

Entered August 3, 2021 from Whitby, Ontario

We are sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad. Keep the happy memories close because you will always have them. Take care and hugs to you all!
Bob, Sheri, Matthew & Brenna

LUIS ITURBE 

Entered August 5, 2021 from Toronto

He definitely will be missed. He left fond memories amongst staff and members of the West End YMCA. My condolences to his family.

Photos 

(1 of 1)