Michael Joseph Sweeney

MICHAEL JOSEPH SWEENEY

Michael Joseph Sweeney went home to be with our precious Lord at midnight, February 8, 2008. Michael was born in San Francisco, November 10, 1953 to Michael and Grace Sweeney. In his younger years, he attended St. Bartholomew's grade school in San Mateo, before moving to San Diego. In San Diego, he attended Blessed Sacrament and University High School, before transferring to Villanova Prep School and graduating in 1971. Michael always cherished the formative years growing up in San Diego, playing daily at the fields at San Diego State with his brothers. At Villanova, he developed many close life long relationships which he cherished. Michael graduated from Long Beach State University with a degree in History, and subsequently moved back to the bay area, working in tax preparation and the restaurant industry.

In 1980, Mike moved out of the bay area to make Chico his home. He worked in Insurance, financial services and restaurant management. Mike was always a warm and loving soul. He loved his family dearly, and cherished the many friends he made in Chico. He loved softball with the boys, the Monday night football league, days in the park, basketball with his buddies in the Card program, card games, and anything that involved being around his friends and family. Mike had an especially deep love for basketball, playing at Villanova his senior year and for years afterward in organized City Ball.

Mike had the kindest and gentlest heart of anyone you could ever meet, he was the "Big Man", the "Gentle Giant". He also enjoyed traveling, taking several trips to Europe with his family. He cherished the fond memories of those times spent overseas. Michael was also a big, big sports fan. In his younger years, he grew to love the Giants and attended many games at Candlestick Park with his family. He also loved the 49ers and the Warriors, spending countless hours enjoying his teams. He had a great mind for numbers, and could recall statistics, player names, and game specifics at the drop of a pin.

Michael leaves behind his younger brothers, Robert, Brian and Patrick. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Karen Sweeney; nephews, Joseph Sweeney and Gracelyn Sweeney, and joins his other nephew Collin Sweeney now in the presence of God. He was preceded in death by his ever-loving parents, Michael and Grace Sweeney.

We will always remember your warm smile, your loving spirit, and the guidance and direction you gave us as the older brother. We all look forward to spending eternity with you, what a blessing you have been to us.

A Celebration of Michael's life for family and friends is pending. Those who wish, may honor him by making a memorial donation to the Jesus Center, c/o Newton-Bracewell Funeral Home. You may view the obituary and share your thoughts online at nbcfh.com