Donald Sweet

Donald Sweet, known for his influential career in business, adventurous spirit, unwavering devotion to family and generous philanthropic endeavors, passed away on October 22nd, 2023, at the age of 93. The intrepid traveler was doing what he loved most, exploring the world, alongside his wife, Sara.

Born and raised in San Francisco, Don was a resolute leader in business, civic, religious and social spheres. He served for several years on the board of Congregation Emanu-El, providing valuable counsel and raising funds for the temple, Jewish Welfare Federation and other cultural organizations. He also served as a Civil Grand Juror for San Francisco.

Don was educated in San Francisco and attended Claire Lilienthal Elementary School, Winfield-Scott campus, Marina Middle School and Lowell High School. He pursued higher education at UC Berkeley, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business. In college, he was active in Pi Lambda Phi fraternity and later served as the adult liaison for many years. Shortly after graduating from college, he met the love of his life, Sara Ogden, captivated by her beauty, character, heart and southern charm. They married on March 15, 1953, and shared 70 years together.

In the 1950s, Don joined his father's commercial real estate firm as a broker. Concurrently, he earned an Insurance Broker's license and established Donald Sweet Insurance which served the community for several decades. Later, he partnered with Bruce Baker to form Sweet and Baker Insurance Brokers, an agency known for the high-end personalized service provided to all of their clients for over 25 years.

In 1975, he founded San Francisco Property Management Company, Inc. which continues to operate today. In 1982, Don served as president of the Western Association of Insurance Brokers for two years. In 1998, Don retired from the insurance business allowing him to focus upon real estate full-time, a passion he embraced until his death. He had a talent for finding good real estate investments and his intimate knowledge of San Francisco, its streets, building owners, and their histories was a testament to his lifelong connection to the city.

Don was not only a talented businessman but also a devoted family man, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Many sought his wisdom and guidance, and he was known for his business advice, common sense and street smarts. Don was an original 'do-It -yourselfer,' taking delight in solving problems, fixing things and offering life lessons to those around him.

He was an enthusiastic world traveler, photographer and sports enthusiast. Photos of his travels and loved ones adorned his home and office. He loved skiing, camping, boating, bridge, dominoes, cooking gourmet meals and spending quality time with family and friends at Lake Tahoe.

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Sara, his sons Andrew (Gloria) and Edward (Harold), and his daughter Shelley (Jonathan). He is also survived by his adoring grandchildren, Jesse (Laura), Brandon (Natalia), Gabriel (Jennifer), Roxanne, and Wylie, and his great-grandchildren, Bodhi, Luna, Jaxon and Josie.

Don Sweet's legacy of generosity, exploration, vitality and an unshakable commitment to family, friends and community will be dearly missed and he will be remembered with deep affection by all who knew him.

If desired, and in lieu of flowers, please contribute to a charity of your choice.