Wilfred Sweet Obituary

Wilfred L. (Bill) Sweet died Monday morning, Dec. 9, 2013, at his residence in Waterford, Conn. He was born on Feb. 6, 1917, in Silverwood, MI, to George and Mary (DeGrow) Sweet.

Bill was committed to learning and was the first in his family to attend college, graduating from Michigan Normal (Eastern Michigan University) in 1940, and from the University of Michigan with a Master of Arts degree in Education in 1946.

He taught for one year in Utica before joining the US Government Tank Automotive Center in Detroit in 1941, and in 1943, he began a 38 year career with Midland Public Schools. Bill was a business teacher before becoming an administrator. He initiated the co-op program and led the adult education program. He retired as Assistant Superintendent of Personnel in 1981.

It was in Midland he met the love of his life, Jean Collar. They were married for 66 years until her death in 2011. Bill and Jean moved to Traverse City in 1987, where they lived until their move to Connecticut in 2010. Together they traveled extensively, meeting new friends and adding to their cherished memories.

Bill was a gregarious and warm person with a wonderful sense of humor. He loved life and captured the best of each day. He cared deeply for all people and was the first to extend a helping hand whenever possible. He was a 46 year member of Kiwanis, and a charter member of the Midland Ki-Wassee and Traverse City Golden K clubs. He served as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army and as a Deacon in the Presbyterian Church.

He was devoted to his family and was very proud of them. Bill is survived by his children, Laurel of Noank, Conn., David (Janet) of Grand Rapids; three grandchildren, Beth of Asheville, N.C., Jeff of Charleston, S.C., and John, of Chicago. He was preceded in death by his sister Pauline; and brother Don.

Memorial services will be held at the Presbyterian Church in Traverse City at a later date. Memorials are gratefully accepted by the Presbyterian Church, 701 Westminster Road, Traverse City, MI 49686.

Published by Midland Daily News on Dec. 14, 2013.
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5 Entries

Our sympathy is with the family. My mom, Mary Jane Perkins, was his secretary for many years as he advanced through the ranks at the Midland Public Schools. He was a kind person and a good boss.

Terri (Perkins) Poulos

December 14, 2013

Mr Sweet was a very nice man, I had him as a teacher in 1950-51, I know he impressed a lot of students as he did me. He lived a full life and I ask the blessings on his family for happy memories and peace only God can give.

Esther Thomas O'Dell

December 14, 2013

Oh goodness, where do I even start! So many days I spent at your house and cottage growing up!! Giving us rides to school and you were always a voice of reason!

Beth Bromley

December 14, 2013

I remember Mr. Sweet. He was a good teacher and a nice person.

December 14, 2013

David,

It is sad to see your father pass from this life but glad to remember all the accomplishments and leadership he gave to the Midland community through his job with the schools and his service at church and the community.

Jerry Kintner

December 14, 2013

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