WARREN — Karen J. Sprowl, 74, passed away unexpectedly at home Thursday, June 1, 2023.

Born in Rockland, March 22, 1949 she was the daughter of Frank and Inez Newhall. Karen grew up in Rockland with her mother and four sisters, Marion, Mary, Lavone and Carol. In her childhood Karen spent her time bike riding in the neighborhood, playing with neighborhood kids, and waiting for the ice cream truck. Carol was always by Karen’s side as they were not only sisters, but best friends. They spent may days at the beach swimming, having picnics, and also going to the movies.

In high school Karen met the love of her life, David. They married on October 30, 1966 and became young parents to their first daughter, Terry, in 1967. Karen focused on being a mother and was not able to finish high school. In the next four years Karen and David grew their family adding three more children, Suzanne, David and Leslie. In 1971, with their family complete, David and Karen bought their home in Glen Cove.

Several years later with the children being older, Karen decided to pursue her high school diploma which she obtained from Georges Valley High School in 1979. She worked at several local grocery stores in the produce department including Teds, Sampson, and Shore Save. Karen was the assistant manager at Lido Convenience Store in Rockland, as well as the produce and deli manager at Megunticook Market in Camden. In the early 90s she opened her own seamstress shop at her home.

As a youth, Karen’s mother taught her the art of sewing and crochet, which became one of Karen’s favorite hobbies. Often she would crochet during the evenings while watching TV and she enjoyed quilting as well. Skilled in sewing, she was always mending, patching or hemming pants for family and friends. Karen’s expertise in this craft enabled her to make several prom and wedding dresses, including her daughter Suzanne’s wedding dress. Each morning Karen would begin her day with a cup of tea and a word search puzzle. Playing games, especially cards, was a favorite pastime of Karen’s. She loved to win and wasn’t shy about showing it. Karen was devoted to her family, she loved being a mother and grandmother.

Spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the most enjoyable times in her life. Family camping trips at Beaver Lodge became a summer tradition, where Karen found her relaxation in sunbathing. Weekends were often spent visiting with her sisters and in-laws families. She hosted many Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, cookouts, and family gatherings throughout the years. One of Karen’s passions was baking, which she shared with her children and grandchildren. Her peanut butter fudge became famous within the family. You could always count on seeing her peanut butter fudge at the dessert table at family gatherings. Karen proudly took on the roll of “Chef” preparing many meals and treats for the annual bear hunting trips to Greenfield in the fall. She also looked forward to local deer hunts with her family.

In her senior years Karen found enjoyment in attending plays, musicals, and craft fairs with her daughters and daughter-in-law. She looked forward to the annual 4th of July trip to Millinocket hosted by her son and daughter- in-law. She also volunteered at the AIO food pantry and enjoyed gardening at her home in Warren.

Karen became an active member of the Rockland Congregational Church. There she found happiness in attending Sunday Service and the fellowship with her lady friends. She played cards with a group of friends at the church weekly. Karen was also a member of the Camden Seniors Group, where she was recently elected assistant secretary. With this group she attended many outings and luncheons. Her sister-in-law and roommate, Geraldine, went on what they called “adventures” including local Sunday drives, going to the movies, visiting local fairs, and dining out at many restaurants along the way. They also made two trips to California to visit with Gerry’s family. They became more like sisters than sisters-in-law.

Karen was the heart of her family and will be greatly missed.

Karen was predeceased by her husband, David A. Sprowl; her three sisters Marion Roy, Mary Malstrom and Lavone Stone; she is survived by her three daughters, Terry Robinson of Tenants Harbor, Suzanne Tefft and her husband Matthew of Durham, and Leslie Sprowl of Warren; her son, David R. Sprowl and his wife Angela of Warren; six grandchildren, Jason Pierce, Kyla McDonald, Sierra Gilbert, Carly Gilbert, Tyler Pettee, and Autumn Pettee; six great-grandchildren; a sister, Carol Strollo and her husband Edmund; sister-in-law Geraldine Sprowl; brother-in-law Dale Sprowl and his wife Kelly; sisters-in-law, Linda Lewis and her husband Sheridan and Sandra Wright and her husband Dennis; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held Friday, June 23, 2023, at 10 a.m., at the Rockland Congregational Church, 180 Limerock Street, Rockland. A reception will follow immediately. Interment will be private.

Although flowers are gratefully accepted, donations may be made to either, AIO Food Pantry and Energy Assistance, P.O. Box 113, Rockland, or Rockland Congregational Church, Abiding Memorial Fund, 180 Limerock Street, Rockland, ME 04841.

To share a memory or condolence with the Sprowl family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.