Michael Sweeney

Michael "Mike" Sweeney, a respected psychologist and beloved family man, passed away on August 27, 2024, at the age of 81. Surrounded by his loving family in Overland Park, Kansas, Mike left this world with the same grace and dignity with which he lived his life.

Born as the oldest of ten children on January 31, 1943, in Dodgeville, Wisconsin, Mike's life was defined by his love for family, his commitment to education, his passion for sports, and his unwavering faith.

After graduating from Blessed Sacrament and Edgewood High School in Madison where he excelled in basketball and baseball receiving all-city and all-state honors, Mike pursued higher education with vigor. He attained his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Notre Dame, where he studied Philosophy then went on to receive his Master's in Psychology from the University of California - Santa Barbara, culminating in a Ph.D. from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. His dedication to the field of Psychology was evident in his meaningful 40-year career where he touched the lives of many individuals.



Mike was a man of many interests, notably an avid fisherman and golfer. He also held an enduring loyalty to his favorite sports teams: the Green Bay Packers, Chicago Cubs, and Wisconsin Badgers, cheering them on through every season. Yet, at the heart of Mike's life was his devotion to his family and his faith. His love for his wife and children was only matched by the joy he found in his role as Grandpa, "Papa". Perhaps his favorite pastime was watching his grandchildren at their sporting or musical events, quietly taking notes on how many rebounds, points, hits, or goals they scored and relaying it to them after the game with a smile. He made everyone he spoke to feel special.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sally (Wilson) Sweeney; their children: Ryan Sweeney (Nicole), Nolan Sweeney, Corey Engmann (Matt), and Brenna Nichols (John); and his adored grandchildren: Fritz, Renate, Lily, Fisher, Mallory, Ollie, and Bauer. Mike also leaves behind a loving legacy with his siblings: Greg (Kenn), Dan (Dana, recently deceased), Mark (Karen), Patrick (Pam), Brian, Gary Joe (Nikki), and Mary Beth Arnold (Dave), and his sisters-in law Jodi and Ann. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Marian Sweeney, and his brothers Jack and Tim.

The Sweeney family will welcome friends and loved ones to a Celebration of Life service to honor Mike's life and memory, with details forthcoming. The family wishes to extend their gratitude for the outpouring of support and asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Mike Sweeney's name to The Miracle League of Dane County (www.danecountymiracleleague.org/) and The Ray and Marian Sweeney Memorial Fund at Edgewood High School, 2219 Monroe Street, Madison, WI 53711.

Mike's life was a testament to the power of listening, understanding, and kindness. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of all who knew him. The Sweeney family looks forward to sharing memories and celebrating the life of a truly remarkable man.

"We must listen to what is supporting us. We must listen to what is encouraging us. We must listen to what is urging us. We must listen to what is alive in us." - Mike Sweeney