East Montpelier Philip L. Sparrow , age 69, of Montpelier passed away peacefully and unexpectedly at Dartmouth Hitchcock Hospital on May 1, 2008 surrounded by his loving family. Philip was born in Marlboro, MA on November 26, the oldest of the eight children of Hermon L and Dorothy J. (Hamelin) Sparrow. Philip graduated from Northboro High School and the Stockbridge Agricultural School of the University of Massachusetts , studying the science of the dairy farm life he loved. Philip married Linda Brackett on October 3, 1959 . They farmed in Massachusetts until 1970 when the whole family moved to East Montpelier , VT to continue the farming life. Philip retired from farming in 1989 but never retired from working. Philip then worked in the ski industry and then at Bond Auto and Cassella Waste Management. He was currently working as one of Cabot Creamery's traveling farmer representatives at various retailers and events. His quick humor and authentic personality made him a hit with consumers. Philip was a tireless advocate for farm issues, serving as President of the Washington County Farm Bureau and devoting years to the boards of both the Farmers Home Administration and the Vermont Dairy Herd Improvement Association. He also served on the East Montpelier Planning Board. Philip leaves his wife of 48 years; Linda; his son, Steven P. and Denise Brown along with grandson Nathan P of East Montpelier who exemplify the work ethic he inspired; daughter Sara L. Cavanaugh and grandchildren Nicole L., Megan R. and Derek E. of Clarksville, TN who will miss their role model and champion; Scott R. and grandson Raymond P. of Montpelier, VT who were afforded strength and pride of work and love of family, and Stacey and her husband Jeffery Ambrosch, Sr. of Clarksville, TN to whom the smell of his pipe will linger along with an appreciation for all things in nature. He also leaves sisters Dorothy A. Locke and husband Frank of Southboro , MA ; Sandra E. Johnson and husband Robert of Lyndeborough, NH; Joyce E. Prosser and husband Robert of Wilton, NH; Mary J. Hadley and husband Craig of Weare, NH; JoAnn S. Lane of Hudson, NH; and brother David H. Sparrow and wife Pamela of East Montpelier, VT. As well as many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Walter L. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, May 6, 2008 at the Old Meeting House in East Montpelier Center followed by a fellowship hour at the adjacent community house. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 434 Hurricane Lane, Williston, VT 05495.