Karen Joan Sparhawk

Karen Sparhawk, 81, of Fresno, passed peacefully into the arms of our Lord on November 25, 2023, with her family by her side. Karen was born September 3, 1942, in Fresno, California. She attended Fresno High School. During high school she worked at Moon-Glo Drive-In Theater. After graduating in 1960, she went on to study Child Development at Fresno City College. Karen was a clothing store sales clerk at Rhodes at Manchester Center and Rodders at Fulton Mall. In 1976, she met her husband, William, and shortly after began her journey as a homemaker. Karen was a very talented cook and made many delicious dishes from both her Armenian and Italian heritage. She found great pleasure in listening to music, dancing, and keeping her body active through exercise. She cherished quality time with her loved ones, especially her grandchildren, who filled her life with an abundance of happiness and joy. Additionally, she embarked on countless adventures alongside her husband, including exploring the open road by motorcycle, camping trips, and traveling in their RV to Las Vegas.

Karen is preceded in death by her father, Harvey Louie Martignoni, and mother, Isabel Magarian. She is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, William Sparhawk III, daughter Jennifer and husband Sean, proud grandmother to Lauren and Sean Jr., sister Judy and husband John of Clovis, brother Harvey Jr. and wife Betty of El Dorado Hills. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the medical professionals, support staff, and caregivers who were a part of Karen's care over the past few years. We appreciate all of your support and kindness.

Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 1:00 pm at the Ararat Armenian Cemetery. Remembrances may be sent to Lisle's Funeral Home at 1605 L Street, Fresno, CA 93721.