Douglas “Grant” Sparrow

December 16, 1941 – June 2, 2026

It is with deep sorrow and much love that Lynn mourns the passing of the love of her life for nearly 45 years, Douglas “Grant” Sparrow, who passed away peacefully at home in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at the age of 84.

Grant will be lovingly remembered by his daughter, Laurie Kotak (Dwayne), and his son, Jeff Sparrow (Karen); his grandchildren, Ryan Kotak, Scott Sparrow (Alora), and Brittney Gietz (Tim); and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Lou Jackson (Bruce) and sister-in-law, Rosemary Sparrow.

He was predeceased by his parents, Lewis John and Dorothy Louise Sparrow (nee Goheen), and by his brother, John Paul Sparrow.

While attending Kenner Collegiate, Grant immersed himself in music and sport, playing trumpet in the Senior Concert Band, singing in the Senior Choir, and participating in the Badminton Club. He also competed with the Peterborough Badminton Club at Market Hall.

His love of music eventually led him to perform alongside his older brother Paul in Peterborough's legendary Bobby Kinsman "Mr. Big Band" Dance Band at Club Aragon. Even after moving to Toronto, he often made the trip back to Peterborough on weekends so he could continue playing with the band he loved.

After graduating high school, Grant married Helen, and together they moved to Toronto where they started a family. A career opportunity later brought them to Winnipeg, where they raised their children, Laurie and Jeff. Later, Grant met Lynn, and together they shared 45 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, family and friendship.

Grant's competitive spirit found an outlet in racquet sports. What began with badminton in Peterborough continued throughout his years in Winnipeg, where he became an accomplished badminton, squash and tennis player at the Winnipeg Canoe Club. He loved both the competition and the friendships the sports brought him, and in 1987 was the reigning Provincial men's 35+ badminton champion.

Throughout his career, Grant was known for his professionalism, leadership and ability to build lasting relationships. Whether in business operations or commercial real estate, he earned the respect and admiration of colleagues, clients and friends alike. He was considered a mentor and trusted friend to many throughout the years.

Grant and Lynn fell in love with Victoria and dreamed of calling it home. In May 1987 they packed up their belongings and headed west to begin a new chapter together. They built careers, friendships and many happy memories before returning to Winnipeg 15 years later to be closer to family.

Grant will be remembered for his quick wit, wonderful sense of humour and ability to find laughter in almost any situation. Whether sharing stories, delivering one of his trademark dad jokes, or teasing family and friends, he had a gift for making people smile. Some of his happiest moments were spent on the deck with a rum and Coke, watching golf or tennis, with a beloved dog nearby and family or friends close at hand. His laughter was contagious, and even through life's greatest challenges, he rarely lost his sense of humour or positive outlook.

In 2011, Grant developed a spinal cord injury, the cause of which was never determined. Faced with a life-changing challenge, he met it with remarkable strength, resilience and grace. In 2025 he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer and once again faced adversity without complaint. When asked about the unfairness of it all, he simply remarked, "Sometimes things like this just happen."

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Palliative Care team, especially Sean, and to caregivers, especially Gitika, whose kindness, compassion and support made a difficult journey easier. Special thanks also to Dr. H. Intrater, whose daily calls and exceptional care meant so much to Grant and his family.

According to his wishes, Grant has been cremated and a private family interment will take place at a later date.