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Thomas Sweeney Obituary
Born in Norwich on May 10, 1933, he was the son of the late Thomas P. and Jane P. (Toomey) Sweeney.
He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Marines, having served in the Korean Conflict.
For 18 years, he served as a state representative, and recently retired as a state mediator of the Department of Labor Mediation and Arbitration for the State of Connecticut.
In 1996 the Yantic River Bridge (Route 82) Washington Street to West Main Street was dedicated to the 18 year Democratic State Representative Thomas F. Sweeney who was instrumental in securing funding for its construction. As his close friend Bill Stanley states, "Tom's fingerprints are still here in the city with us in the bridge named after him, something that he was very proud of."
Tom also helped establish the Mohegan Community College, now known as Three Rivers Community College in Norwich, assisted in keeping the courthouse in Norwich, and obtain a grant for the Norwich Industrial Park. He was well respected by both laborers and management. He was a life member of the V.F.W.
Surviving are four daughters, Michele A. Sweeney-Lespier and her husband Frenchie of Uncasville, Colleen J. Sweeney of Groton, Kathleen E. Sweeney of Old Lyme and Emily E. Sweeney of Norwich; three grandchildren, Jay Lavallee, Marcey Williams. and Zachary T. S. Lespier; one great-granddaughter, Gigi Lavallee; a sister, Patricia S. Guiney of Groton; and two nephews, Kevin T. Guiney and Jeffrey M. Perka.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, Broadway, Norwich, meeting directly at the Cathedral, with interment to follow with Military Honors in Maplewood Cemetery. There is no visitation.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to the Echo Cancer Foundation, 330 Washington St., Suite 220, Norwich, CT 06360.
Arrangements are by Labenski Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Sweeney
4 Entries
Ginni Cronin
February 9, 2007
Dear Emily and Family,
Our thoughts are with you. We are praying that God will give you His peace and strength to get through this very difficult time. I know you loved your dad so much and you had a very special relationship with him. Keep those wonderful memories in the forefront of your mind. Your dad did a great job raising you - you are an awesome person!
Julie Ferrigno
February 8, 2007
Sweeney Family:
I worked with your Dad for 2 years in Mediation and Arbitration. Shortly after joining the staff here I realized that Tom knew my Dad, Billy Ciotto. They worked together in the legislature for many years. He respected your Dad and had only good things to say about him. Your Dad was a wonderful man. He always had a good joke to share when he was in the office. He was a happy man who enjoyed helping people. He did so much for you to be proud of. We miss him. Know that Tom and all of you are in our prayers.
Lisa Duzy
February 7, 2007
Emily and Family,
I am so sorry. Your father was a remarkable man - now I know where you get it from. Stay strong, I know you are making him proud.
Melissa Frey
February 7, 2007
Emily and Family,
I was very sad to read about your Dad. It's been years since I've seen him but I can remeber him like it was yesterday. I always enjoyed going to your house and seeing your Dad. He was fun to be around and had a great sense of humor. He will be greatly missed.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Melissa Frey (Missy)
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