Jean Dolores (Sparapani) Grimshaw

Jean D. Grimshaw, 89, of East Haven passed away peacefully on April 13, 2023. Jean was the beloved wife of 68 years to Robert J. Grimshaw. She was born on June 17, 1933, daughter of the late Mario and Mary Bruno Sparapani. Jean’s life revolved around her family, loving mother of Lorraine (James) Sheehan of Cheshire, and Roberta (Michael) Gambardella of East Haven.  Also, sister of Reny (Janet) Sparapani of New Haven.   Jean was the loving grandmother of Katherine (Garrett) Ebersole, Robert (Stephanie) Sheehan, James Sheehan, Jr., Christine (William) Rose and Michele (Connor) Isnard; great-grandmother of Charlotte and Avery Rose and Christopher Sheehan. Also, survived by many nieces and nephews. Jean was predeceased by her brothers, Edward and Leo Sparapani, and sisters, Adele Rapani and Irma Ruggiero.

Jean was an avid bowler, serving as a 40-year member of the Women’s International Bowling Congress where she competed in 36 tournaments throughout the United States. Her athletic interests also consisted of a terrific fanhood for the UConn women’s basketball program, including multiple trips to the Final Four.      

Visitation will be held at MARESCA & SONS FUNERAL HOME 592 Chapel St. New Haven on Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. followed by a catholic service at 11 a.m. Interment at All Saints Cemetery.

Contributions may be made in Jean’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (st.jude.org.)

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