Joe J. Sweeney

Joseph “Joe” John Sweeney, son of Lucille (Sheaffer) and Clarence Sweeney, was born on December 26, 1936. Joe was such a handsome young devil that he once won a photo contest as a toddler. Joe lived his youth on the farm and attended school in Sutherland. As a child, Joe liked to play football, drive fast cars, and chase girls.

Following high school, Joe enlisted in the Marines and proudly served for 2 years. He liked to tell his grandchildren he drag raced Elvis at a stoplight when he was stationed in Memphis. After his years in the military, he was united in marriage to his first love, Judith “Judy” Koepp, on June 24, 1961 in Sheldon. They settled on the home farm in Sutherland for the entirety of their life together. Judy passed away in 2003 after battling cancer. Joe was blessed to find another partner and was united in marriage to Mary Ann Petersen on May 20, 2006 in Sutherland.

Joe loved many things–his family most of all. He was the biggest supporter of his boys, their wives, his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was often found on the farm, at the golf course, on a road trip, or at morning coffee. He was passionate about dancing, his favorite foods (ice cream, butter, and bacon), and driving around town in his golf cart to make sure everything was running smoothly. Joe loved to make people laugh and was always ready with a trick up his sleeve.

He was very active in the community of Sutherland serving as a member of the School Board, Elevator Board, Economic Development, City Council, and Ruritan. He loved starting the kids’ races at the Labor Day Celebration. Joe was a devout member of the Catholic Church.

Joe passed away unexpectedly surrounded by loved ones at MercyOne in Sioux City on June 27, 2024 at the age of 87. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, his wife, Judy, his sons, David and Daniel, and his wife, Mary Ann.

Left to cherish his memory and tell stories about Joe for years to come are his children: Chris & Melissa of Colorado Springs, Doug & Char of Sutherland, Steven of Arnolds Park, and daughter-in-law Karen of Sioux Falls. His grandchildren: Austin (KC), Taylor, Brenna (Garrett), Bria (Gene), Emma (Brandon), Connery (Ciara), Ally (Jagger), Taralynn (Kasey), Seattle, Abigail, and Coral. He also has 14 beloved great-grandchildren. In addition, Joe had 4 step-children, 4 step-grandchildren, and 5 step-great-grandchildren. Finally, many friends are left with happy memories of Joe, especially his special companion, Carol Wittrock.

We hope everyone will keep Joe’s memory alive by telling stories and jokes, hugging their families tight, and enjoying life to the fullest.