Carl L. Sparrow

Carl L. Sparrow, 75 died peacefully at his home in Keokuk on Monday, July 13, 2026. His daughter and son-in-law were blessed to be at his side.

Carl was born May 21, 1951, in Quincy, Illinois, the son of Robert and Jessie Sparrow. He grew up in West Point, Illinois, primarily raised by his grandparents Alva and Mabel Sparrow. He attended school in Bowen, Illinois, with the class of 1970. Carl started out his career with the Keokuk Gas Company and stayed with the company until his retirement. He saw the company bought and sold many times, eventually requiring his transfer to Johnson City, Tennessee, where he lived for 25 years. He and his wife Diane returned to Keokuk to retire.

Carl is survived by his wife Diane Sparrow, his daughter Melissa (Alan) Brewer of Hamilton, and sons Dennis (Lynne) Sparrow of Quincy and Adam (Stephanie) Sparrow of Texas. Carl cherished his grandchildren, Jacob (Courtney) Ayers, Lizabeth (Zack) Taylor, Sam Sparrow, Emma Sparrow, and Skylar Sparrow, and his three great-granddaughters, Elliot Ayers, Hazel Taylor, and Ruby Taylor. Additionally, he is survived by his step-daughter Tammy of New Mexico and step-son Tim of the Kansas City area, their spouses and children. Locally, he is also survived by multiple siblings and their spouses, as well as a special sister-in-law Peggy (Doug) Peterson.

Upon Carl’s request, there will be a private graveside service for immediate family only on Monday. Memorials may be made to Lee County Hospice.