Terry L. Sweek

On Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the age of 91, Terry Lee Sweek answered the Lord's call and peacefully left this world.
Terry was the beloved husband of Esther for 35 wonderful years, and a loving father to Laurie (Mitch) and Linda, from his first marriage to Kay (deceased), and a loyal stepfather to Curtis, Joseph, and Susan. Terry was a proud and caring grandfather to Michael (Carrie), Adam (Beth), Jacob (Dawn), Benjamin (Maren), Max (Christine), and Daniel (Cristina), He also embraced numerous step- and great-grandchildren with warmth and humor. He is survived by his treasured sister Sandy (Jerry) Mortimer, cherished by niece Lynn (Tim) Kemmett, other nieces, nephews, and cousins. Terry was joyfully welcomed into eternity by his parents, Stephen and Mabel Sweek.
Born and raised in West Allis, Wisconsin, Terry graduated from Nathan Hale High School before serving honorably in the United States Coast Guard. He went on to spend 30 years with the West Allis Fire Department, where he didn't just fight fires-he cooked, drove the trucks like a pro, became a lieutenant, made a few heroic rescues, and was a master of well-timed practical jokes.
Terry had a knack for building things, then improving them, and then-just because-adding a racing stripe. He had a soft spot for his dogs, spoiling more than a few. In retirement, he played trumpet with the New Horizons band and the swing band One More Time, sailed when he could, and traveled widely in later years. Terry made friends easily and kept them for life. If you were lucky to know him, you probably shared a beer, a good story, or both. True friendship resists time, distance, and silence, and he lived that out, keeping in touch with friends near and far.
Terry leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and anyone who shared a firehouse meal or butter burger at the pub with him.
A celebration of Terry's life will be held with Visitation from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM, followed by the service at 11:30 AM, at LIVING HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 1337 South 100th Street, West Allis, Wisconsin on Friday, May 9, 2025. Private interment at Highland Memorial Park in New Berlin.
Remember him with us, raise a glass, pet a dog, tell a good story in his honor, or donate in his name to: Macular Degeneration Research, a BrightFocus Foundation Program Milwaukee Rescue Mission Living Hope Lutheran Church – We suggest choosing "Building Hope Capital Campaign"