Joan (Shippam) Sparrow

SPARROW, Joan (nee Shippam): At Peterborough Regional Health Centre Palliative Care surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer on Wednesday, July 4, 2018. Joan, a cherished and devoted mother of Sharolyn Leithold (Markus), Sue Warrington (Chris White), Shelley Sparrow (Laurence Mead), and predeceased by her son John. Beloved Grandmother of Martine, Scarlett, Wolfgang; Nick (Sarah), Ben (Lindsay); Natalie and Julianna, and Great Grandmother of Bowen. Sister of Brenda and Grant. Daughter of the late Stan and Edna Shippam. Joan’s life was dedicated to the world of figure skating both as a former Canadian Figure Skating Champion and as a dedicated instructor for over 50 years, helping to develop skaters of all ages across Canada and the United States.  Her passion for people led her to along and successful career in retail up to her final year.   Joan was a long time active member of the Soroptimist International of Peterborough and an inductee of the Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame as well as the Timmins Sports Heritage Hall of Fame.

Joan’s family would like to thank the caring staff of PRHC’s Palliative Care Unit, Empress Gardens and Lakeridge Health Centre in Oshawa for their care and compassion during her time with them. Relatives and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life Reception at the HIGHLAND PARK FUNERAL CENTRE, 2510 Bensfort Road, on Sunday, August 12, 2018 from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. In memory of Joan, donations to the Soroptimist International of Peterborough, Peterborough Humane Society or PRHC’s Palliative Care Unit would be appreciated by the family. On-line condolences may be expressed at www.highlandparkfuneralcentre.com