The world lost a good man Thursday, Sept. 6, 2012. Stephen “Steve” W. Sweney, 60, of Ranier, Minn., passed away at his home.
Steve was born July 3, 1952, in International Falls, Minn. He grew up in the community and attended Falls High School. He was a star wrestler for the Falls High team.
After high school, Steve joined the United States Army and proudly served his country in Vietnam.
Steve returned home and married his high school sweetheart, Mary Lou Larsen, on April 26, 1974.
Steve enjoyed the outdoors. He hunted, fished, riced, and canoed, but was best known for his beaver trapping. His favorite pastimes were spent trapping on the State ditch grade or up at his cabin, or with his friend Percy at the shack.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Zelda and Harry Sweney and William and Mayme Holenko; and ex-wife, Mary Lou Sweney.
Steve is survived by his parents, John Sweney and Dorothy Fries; brother, John Sweney; and sister, Dorothy Yunker.
Steve is also survived by his children, Karma (Tracy) Adams of San Antonio, Texas, and Tyler Sweney of the Falls; grandson, Ethan Adams (and when Ethan smiles, his mother Karma sees Steve’s smile).
Steve will also be sadly and greatly missed by his special friends, Gretchen Coulombe and her children, Jessica Frarck and Kyle Askey, and also special friend Jody Howdahl, and the many many friends who knew and loved Steve.
A Celebration of Life will be conducted from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, at Ranier Community Building.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations may be made to the Koochiching County Senior Center or Zion Lutheran Church in memory of Steve.
Condolences may be left at www.greenlarsen.com.
Arrangements are with Green-Larsen Mortuary Inc., International Falls.
