January 3, 2012
MSU Law Community Mourns the Passing of Trustee David Sparrow
East Lansing, MI — With great sorrow, Michigan State University College of Law Dean Joan W. Howarth announces the passing of long-time Law College Trustee David J. Sparrow, who died Sunday, January 1, 2012, after a brief illness.
"David Sparrow was an exceptionally decent and gracious person," said Dean Howarth. "MSU College of Law was graced by his leadership, and I was privileged to know him as a friend."
A proud graduate of Detroit College of Law, now known as MSU Law, Sparrow was an integral member of the Board of Trustees since 1985. He served as treasurer from 1987 until mid-2011. He chaired the MSU College of Law Foundation and served as its president until 2007. He also supported the Law College as a past chair and member of the MSU College of Law Development Council.
"David's enthusiasm for affiliating Detroit College of Law with MSU and growing its reputation as a Big Ten law school was an inspiration for all members of the Board of Trustees," said Board Chairman Clif Haley.
Trustee Sparrow, a Detroit native, received his Juris Doctor degree from Detroit College of Law in 1951 and a Doctor of Laws degree from the Law College in 1995. A prominent real estate and property development attorney, he founded the firm of Rowin & Sparrow with the late Gerald Rowin in 1952. The two practiced together until 2001.
Trustee Sparrow was president of Management Corporation of Michigan and a past president of Plaza Investment Company. He was a past president and trustee of the Oakland County Intermediate School District board and served several terms as a trustee of Mariners Inn in Detroit.
Mr. Sparrow is survived by his three daughters, Susan Carson, Nancy Sparrow, and Joanne Stewart; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dona Patricia ("Pat"), who died in 2008.
Those who wish to share memories or extend condolences to the family may send them to The Family of Trustee David Sparrow, c/o Michigan State University College of Law, 368 Law College Building, East Lansing, MI 48824-1300.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, January 5, at Christ Church Cranbrook. The church is located at 470 Church Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304.
Memorials donations may be made in Mr. Sparrow's name to Focus: HOPE, 1355 Oakman Boulevard, Detroit, MI 48238.
