Irwin E. Sweet

Irwin Eugene Sweet, age 91, of Mikado, MI passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on October 6th, 2009 at his home in Mikado, MI. He was born on March 25th, 1918 to the late Leslie and Pearl Sweet in Saginaw, MI. Irwin married the love of his life Bernita Rose London on December 10th, 1938 in Harrisville, MI. They were blessed to be able to celebrate 70 years of marriage with family and friends last December. As a child Irwin spent many summers in Mikado with his grandfather farming. He began Sweet Farms in 1938. Besides farming Irwin enjoyed photography, hunting and spending time with his family. He loved traveling with his wife to New Orleans and Colorado to see his family. Even after retirement Irwin continued his love for farming by helping his son Jim in any way he could. Irwin courageously battled Parkinson's Disease for the past 15 years. His witty sense of humor and determination will be missed by all who knew him. Irwin is survived by his loving children; Barbara Martuch of Mikado, Charlie Sweet of Grand Junction, CO, Irene (Jim) Hartman of Oscoda, Cathy (Clifford) Travis of Mikado, Jeannie (Tom) D'Angelo of Kenner, LA, James (Jenny) Sweet of Mikado, Debbie Thum of Mikado and Sandy (Russ) Scannavino of Metairie, LA. He is also survived by 21 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. Irwin was preceded in death by his loving wife Bernita, on April 5, 2009, his parents Leslie and Pearl, his sister Lois Dietrich and 2 sons-in-law; Harry Martuch and Karl Thum. The family will receive friends Friday, October 9th, 2009 from 4-9 p.m. at Gillies Funeral Home in Lincoln, MI. Visitation will continue on Saturday, October 10th, 2009 from 11 a.m. until the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. If desired memorial contributions may be directed to the Alcona County Commission on Aging. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Irwin E. Sweet, please visit our flower store.