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Walt Sweeney Obituary
The Chargers website says Sweeney died of pancreatic cancer on Saturday.
Sweeney was a second-round pick out of Syracuse in the 1963 AFL draft, and stayed with the Chargers through the 1970 NFL merger. He was eventually named to the team's Hall of Fame.
Sweeney played in either the AFL All-Star Game or the Pro Bowl nine straight seasons, and played in 181 consecutive games.
He spent 11 seasons with San Diego and two with the Washington Redskins.
In 1997, a judge ordered the NFL to pay Sweeney $1.8 million in disability after he claimed drugs his teams gave him made him an addict. The ruling was overturned on appeal.
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
79 Entries
Ryan Sweeney
November 7, 2023
Walt was my great uncle (my grandfather's brother). I got to meet him a few times at family functions--great man who could fill up a room with laughter
Sherry Vereschagin
April 27, 2019
RIP Walt. I loved that man. He was so good to me and Zack. Walt never missed Zack's football home games when we lived in So Lake Tahoe. He loved my homemade tamales. We were blessed to have known him and Nanci. Another loss of a great man.
Jerry Mills
July 29, 2018
When I was 16 years old, I helped coach a Little League team that Rick was playing on. Naturally I was a little starstruck by Walt's presence but he was such a genuinely nice guy and treated me very well. I'll never forget when he and a couple of his buddies treated me and the other coaches to an evening at a Padre game to say "thanks" for coaching Rick. I won't go into all the details but it was the first time in my life I was "86'ed" from a bar. You were a good guy, Walt. Rest in peace.
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Brandi Garofalo
April 5, 2017
It's been many years. Thanks for your help and for many great memories for me, Jason & Dillion. We will never forget you Walt & Nanci. Love you!
Brandi, Jason & Dillion
February 2, 2014
Walt, you have been gone 1 year ago today, and the Super Bowl is being played today. Isn't that ironic?
We miss you and always will, and I know you HAVE to be in Heaven!
Scott Anderson
May 19, 2013
When I was a boy you were my hero and as an adult my friend.I will never forget you,me and Roy Buchanan in San Diego and the time you lived with my family in Cohasset!
Jeff Cain
February 18, 2013
Mr.Sweeney I Idolized you in high school 71 thru 75 I was a right guard and my dad an ex player and I studied your technique and every week it delivered.
I used to pancake guys like nobodys business thanks to you. My coach even called me Mr. Sweeney.
I want you to know that in 2001 I met and married an old friend of yours Donna Jarvis from Lorton Va.
I never really believed some of her stories about you guy's until you wrote Off Guard and their she was. What are the odds that I would meet your ex. that many years later. Great book, Donna is doing well, she is very tuff,focused and successful due in part to you I am sure.
May the After Life be good to you Sir.
Godspeed
Tom Burke
February 17, 2013
My hero!! Grew up in Cohasset and witnessed many of his amazing HS feats, in football, track, and basketball....and his strolling Sandy Beach as a life guard...Walt was truly a talent for the ages and a Hall of Famer in every way. It hurts to know he's gone...along with SallyAnne, Clark, and Eddy.
RIP Walt!!
February 13, 2013
Dear Rick and Kristin,
I met your dad whicle buying his book at the "76", on 12/27/12. We started talking. At one point he mentioned he'd like to come back to the Catholic Church and would I help him. I gave him my card and began to pray about his situation. Little did I know, he'd be meeting God so soon. I beleive his intention to do to Church has been blessed by God.
Ginnie Curran
RICK FARR
February 12, 2013
Sweeney Family,I'm sorry for your loss of a good man. I meet MR.Sweeney when i was 9yrs. old. Walt showed me at that age,if you can help some one, do it.After all the year's that went by it was to thank him in person on Oct. 6, 2012 in La Jolla.We'll all be together again in time..P.S. I like how Walt said goodbye to the NFL, on super bowl sunday 2013,(LIGHTS OUT). HA,HA.. R.FARR, San Diego,CA.
Ron Bartkowski
February 11, 2013
I attended Syracuse from 62 to 64 and worked on the athletic training staff. I remember Walt as a giant of a man....along side of Ernie Davis, the first to pass from the era, along with John Mackie and Bo Nance. Some great athletes and nice guys. Sorry for your loss!
February 11, 2013
walt--
to a guy i have the utmost respect for- as a football player and a man.you were the best you fought a tough battle my friend. now it is time for you to rest in peace with your beautiful nanci and duke. we will miss you, -your friend and neighbor, jack p. battaglia and giatano battaglia.
Ginny Najmi
February 11, 2013
Sorry you had to leave so soon, Walter. You were an inspiration to so many of your small-town classmates because you dared to pursue your big dreams. I wish there had been a better chance to know you in those later years. As another friend remarked, there was much more to you than we ever realized. Rest in peace.
February 11, 2013
HAPPY ARE THEY THAT MOURN,SINCE THEY WILL BE COMFORTED."..MATT.5:4...MY SINCERE SYMPATHY TO THE SWEENEY FAMILY...GQ
One of the great Orangemen: Walt Sweeney--3rd row from top, 4th from left, #89. RIP Walt.
Bobbi Harwood
February 10, 2013
Charlie De Sanntis
February 10, 2013
Walter, thanks for all the memories. I hold so fondly the fun, adventure and excitement that you brought to my youth and to so many others. You were an extraordinary athlete and personality. Your heart was as great as your athletic prowess. I was so fortunate that your life touched mine. My condolences to your family. May you rest in peace.
Cappy De Santis
Jack Cassidy
February 10, 2013
My prayers and condolences to the Sweeney family.I'll miss those visits at the Golden Doughnut shop.
February 10, 2013
Walt worked for me as a truck salesman in his first off season. I always had a special place in my heart for him. I thought it was great that he came back after his playing days were over and tried to help kids with addiction problems. He was a great guy as well as a great football player. Norm Pressley
February 10, 2013
In 1964 Walt took a job in the off season in the cash vault at United States National Bank. I sat in the cage opposite him and got to know him well at 8 hours a day. Walt was my first contact with a professional football player. He had a great sense of humor and lived life to the fullest and I mean fullest as most guys do at that age. I was invited out to have drinks after work but was not of age but appreciated the fact that I even got invited. In order to keep in shape at least while working there Walt would take a bag of silver dollars in each hand and press them over his head dozens of times a day. Hell I could barely pick a bag up with two hands from the floor let alone press it over my head. Obviously he became a team favorite of the guys in the vault. Godspeed Walt.
Peter Hobbs
Dan Burton
February 9, 2013
Most dominate pulling guard I ever saw as a long time Charger season ticket holder from year one in San Diego. A friend who saw Walt often just sent me an autographed copy of his book. One of the all time Charger greats. RIP
Angela Simpson
February 9, 2013
Walt was a great football player and a kind,loyal friend.
My late husband, Jackie,was on the Chargers staff when Walt played, and always had good things to say about Walt.
After Jackie passed away, and my family was back in San Diego, we were again in touch with Walt, and he helped us with some family problems. We all loved him.
Kristin and Rick, I am so very sorry.
February 9, 2013
Walt,thanks for the memories,pleasuer working out,playing with you----great player --- great friend.---- Joe Amico,Danvers,Ma.
February 9, 2013
Walter, Dad, & Ron
Robert Madro
February 8, 2013
A Truly Great, Kind, & Thoughtful Man. You were there in Our time of need.
My thoughts and prayers are with you & your loved ones.
Godspeed, Walter Francis!
thom madro
February 8, 2013
Rest in peace Walter - my dad always considered you one of the two best players he ever coached!!
Larry Underwood
February 8, 2013
This is very sad news. I remember Walt from our days at Syracuse University. I had a lot of good discussions and fond memories of Walt. We had our share of beers together. We both lived on the eight floor of Sadler Dorm. I last saw Walt about 1975 or 76 in Carlise, Pennsylvania at the Washington Redskins pre-season camp. We had not seen each other in 12 years at that point and he picked me right up in the air in front of all the other players in disbelief that it was me. We then went out to have a few beers together and had our own reunion. I wish we could have seen more of each other through the years, but at least I have that memory. Walt, rest in peace!
CC Miller
February 8, 2013
Walt, you were generous to a fault with a smile and a good word to those who knew you. I am a better man for the time I knew you at the beach. RIP. We will hang together again in the next life. Save room for me on the sea wall.
Norma Vargas
February 8, 2013
A legend; a great human being, it was a pleasure working with you.
Rest in peace.
Vargas family loves you and will always remember you.
Henry (Wally) McLarey
February 8, 2013
I was very happy to see Walter again at our 5o th Cohasset H. S. reunion and now saddened upon hearing of by his untimely passing. We were co-captins of our winning football team and shared some great memories of those days. His profootball fame continued to bring much pleasure to his hometown fans. God bless Walter and his family.
victor
February 8, 2013
a true great...he certainly magnified the sprirt of the super chargers...he will truly be missed
Steve Casey
February 7, 2013
At my passing I could only hope for comments like Walts. Everyone can't be wrong. What a fella! R.I.P.
KC O'Hara
February 7, 2013
Walter, you were a generous, and beautiful man with an elegant soul, sorry I didn't have the opportunity to see you one more time. Catch you on the next run through. . . Be in Bliss, No doubt, heaven loves Mr. Walter Sweeney.
(Walter story) When I finally decided to go to school, in my thirties, I needed a guest speaker for a health class, I asked Walter, he showed up and did a stellar job. The teacher refused to believe WS would come to this rinky dinky class at SDCC. He said, "if Walt Sweeney walks through that door, you never have to complete an assignment or show up for class again and you get an A." Sure enough Walter showed up; the teacher was absolutely stunned. That's just one example of the kind of man Walter was. He touched and inspired many, . . .
February 7, 2013
Hi Kristen, I am Alex Monti Jr, son of Kay Monti. I spotted your dad's name in paper and recollection made me suspect you were the one that worked as my mom's supervisor. And indeed this was your father. My father passed away last April. He is with the Lord Jesus Christ, and I cannot imagine your dad not a believer in Christ as well. If so, he is in glory. My mom will try to write you via email or mail. If you could leave an email address to me: [email protected], that would be great. You have our condolences and hope God's grace is guiding you through this painful time. My mom always liked you so much. And hope all family have joy in midst of pain. Indeed, your dad was obviously a very handsome man, and hope the ending was relief heading to heaven
Alex and Kay Monti
Gus Giardi(SU-"64")
February 7, 2013
Always played the game hard. A good guy, a great player, and an excellent teammate. He has found peace. My deepest sympathy to his family & friends.
Mary Kuziel
February 7, 2013
May he rest in peace...We knew him as a Redskin - my husband respected his ability as an Offensive lineman and said he was the best at his position when he played. You couldn't not love him.
February 7, 2013
Our deepest sympathy and heeeartfelt condolnces to the Sweeney family. He will be missed by so many. Remember the good times. May the God who gives peace be with all of you.-RO.15:33
Margaret
February 7, 2013
May the God who gives peace be with all of YOU. Amen, -Romam 15:33. May you be comfort by these words. I am sorry for your loss.
Jim Roberts
February 6, 2013
Walt, Keith Paul, Lance, Sid, my dad and me watching football at balboa stadium on a sunny Sunday afternoon....thanks for the memories...the game played honest and true, the way it was meant to be. R.I.P
Barb
February 6, 2013
With deepest sympathy to family and friends and may you find comfort in Gods inspired word the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16).
J Allyn Brown
February 6, 2013
Sweeney family
What a brave man. He really opened a lot of people to the heavy drug usage and pressure in Professional sports. His stand made it so much safer for others. I am sure the family has a lot more memories than we do of how great it was to know him. Ecclesiastes 7:1-3 mentions the celebration of knowing not just a name but the person behind the name. May the memories that you all have allow you to do just that.
February 6, 2013
WALTER WE HAD A GOOD TIME AT OUR 50TH YOU WILL BE WITH ME .WILL NOT FORGET THE TIME WE ALL HAD AT THE 50TH KEN
Vinnie
February 6, 2013
To one of the gentlemen of the game,Walt rest in peace.From a Charger Fan.
February 6, 2013
To the family of walter, you had a real good man. walter and i had a good time at our 50th class reunion in cohasset. he was a good man, from his old class mate ken o'malley from New London, Mo.
Richie Rogers
February 6, 2013
I met Walt at the Shack in Cohasset my Senior year as I went to Scituate High. We became friends & I played against him when Syracuse won the National Championship as well. We became friends & lost touch in 1961 as I entered the service. He was a true friend & helped me a lot & I wont forget 59 & 59 Walt we were out of touch but will always remeber you & you will be missed
B Lucas
February 6, 2013
My sincere condolence for the loss of Walt your dear loved one. May your fond memories of him bring good thoughts and comfort. Peace and love to your family and friends, and to the spirit that you show. [email protected]
Eddie Ros
February 6, 2013
My wife and I were fortunate enough to meet Walt and his old dog Duke. We would walk the local park with them most mornings. Walt was a very likable guy, we'll miss him. A true Hall of Famer.
Johnny Carrillo
February 6, 2013
Rip Walt .
Jane Dowling
February 6, 2013
God bless you and your loved ones ~ Rest in peace.
February 6, 2013
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
February 6, 2013
May you cherish the memories and hold them close. Know that the God of all comfort with help you though this difficult time. Psalm 83:18.
February 6, 2013
Sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the Hearer of prayer at this time. Psalm 65:2
Tom Alibrandi
February 6, 2013
I am shocked reading this. Walt and I were friends at Syracuse, and then we met up again in San Diego and Lake Tahoe. He was a consummate gentleman and a generous and supportive friend. Walt was truly one of the good guys in life: he'd do anything for those he loved and cared about. And he never ever let life defeat him; he always answered the bell. Goodbye my friend and brother.
Walt Sweeney
February 6, 2013
Walt and I met many years ago and reflected on the coincidence of our name. We each had some ink spent on our very different careers so each knew of the other through the press. You are in my prayers, Walt. May you rest in peace!
February 6, 2013
He was on my mom's paper route in late 1960's and I was a big fan at age 7 or so. Sorry to hear of his passing. He was friendly to me the few times I saw him.
Doug Smith
February 5, 2013
So Sad to hear of Walt's passing we grew up together in Cohasset he left me with some great memories both on and off the field. We had some great pick games on the Cohasset common back then. He was a great guy. My thoughts and prayers are with all his family.
Nancy Hermann
February 5, 2013
To The Sweeney family,
Walt was a class act! He was willing to share the heartache of his addiction, as well as the triumph of his ultimate recovery. This encouraged and empowered many of our union members to believe that they could achieve recovery, as well as save their jobs. He made himself available whenever I called. He saved lives! It was his job, but also his passion. Rest in Peace my friend. You deserve it!
FootballTopFan
February 5, 2013
Rest In Peace !!!
FootballTopFan
S.Griggs
February 5, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Deane & Maria Taylor
February 5, 2013
Our prayers are with you at this time of great personal loss. Walter will be remembered by everyone who ever met him. We pray that God's compassionate love will console you and that you may know the peace that Walter now possesses. May Mary our Mother protect and guide you during this difficult time.
Cindy Miller
February 5, 2013
I have such wonderful memories of my Uncle Walt. When I was little I'd spend my summers in Cohasset with my grandmother and it was always so much fun when Uncle Walt would come over. We would pack a lunch and go to the beach for the whole day. He and my Uncle Bobby taught me how to swim! Rest in peace Uncle Walt. I will miss you.
February 5, 2013
Thoughts & Prayers go out to the Sweeney Family. May God Bless & Be with You.
denny c
February 5, 2013
shocked
Jodi Belanger-Riley
February 5, 2013
He was a giving person. He was amazing to work with and was always willing to help our students through his personal story.
John Barnes
February 5, 2013
my prayers go out to Walt what a great man !
February 5, 2013
SINCERE SYMPATHIES TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS. MAY THE LOVING PROMISES AND SUPPORT FROM OUR CREATOR, THE "GOD OF ALL COMFORT" GUIDE YOU THROUGH THESE DIFFICULT TIMES
sheila sweeney
February 5, 2013
sleep with the angels now uncle walter...i will remember our last visit in portland,bagpipes and football
Joan Wigmore
February 5, 2013
To all the Sweeney Family: How I remember you all growing up in Cohasset, graduated with Bernie, and saw Walt as the "little Sweeney". My prayers are with all of his family and may he rest in peace.
February 5, 2013
My sincere condolences on the loss of your dear one. May the God of comfort bring the family peace and hope.
G. Johnson
February 5, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
February 5, 2013
Sad to lose you old friend. I regret not keeping closer contact. Between my brother and you we had some times. You truly deserve the Hall of Fame honor. God Bless. Jim Herringshaw
Mrs. Henderson
February 5, 2013
To the Sweeney Family: I like to express the condolences of the Henderson family during this time of grief. I hoping that all the memories that were shared be a source of great comfort. Something that has comforted me are the words of Isaiah33:24 "No one will say i am sick." This is a promise from our Grand Creator sure to be true.
LJB
February 5, 2013
Rest in peace walt! You were a class act , always an exciting player to watch.
MIKE ARNONE
February 5, 2013
WALT NEVER LOST HIS SCITUATE SENSE OF LIFE OR HUMOR. A GREAT FOOTBALL PLAYER WHOSE TALES OF LIFES TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS WOULD LIGHT A ROOM. RIP
richard perkins
February 5, 2013
played for Syracuse U. AT A TIME WHEN THE Orangemen were dominant in college football. Great football player!
Becca
February 5, 2013
God speed, and my heartfelt sympathy to your family, and friends. You would have won that lawsuit if there was a do-over today.
Mark Redmond
February 5, 2013
Looks like to me, he came from old school,dedicaded and with passion for what he so loved, God bless you Walt and may you rest in peace...
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