Michael K. Sweeney

IRONWOOD, Mich. - Michael K. Sweeney, 69, of Ironwood, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, Jan. 27, 2023.

He was born on Oct. 21, 1953, in Allegan, Michigan, a son of Leonard and Barbara (Van Strien) Sweeney.

Mike's early grade schooling began in Nuremberg, Germany. He had many fond memories of living in Germany and family trips to Switzerland and Italy. The family eventually returned to the states and settled in Gobles, Michigan. Mike graduated from Gobles High School in 1971, and then he graduated from Kalamazoo Valley Community College with an associate degree in law enforcement.

Mike served as chief of police in Gobles and as an officer with the city of Niles police department before enlisting with the Michigan State Police. He graduated with the 92nd Recruit School in 1977.

Mike served as a trooper at the Manistique Post, a sergeant at the Wakefield Post and a detective sergeant in the Fire Marshal Division at district headquarters in Paw Paw. In 1983, he along with three other troopers were recognized for their bravery in risking their lives to save an individual who was about to jump into turbulent waters of the Manistique River. Mike received the department's Bravery Award for his actions. After 25 years of service, he retired on Jan. 1, 2003.

Mike had 20 years of happy retirement. He most enjoyed his vacations to Fort Myers Beach, Florida, with his wife, Liz, and their dear friends. He loved four-wheeling in the Upper Peninsula, pontooning on Lake Gogebic and sitting around his backyard campfires with family and friends. Mike lived life to the fullest.

On April 30, 1994, he married Elizabeth Aimone, she survives. In addition, he leaves to cherish his memory, sons, Seth (Becky) and Kyle; brother, Lonny (Carol); brother-in-law, Angelo (Janet) Aimone; sister-in-law, Margaret Aimone; aunts, Gloria Maniaci and Shirley Aimone; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and special friends, Rick and Carolyn Martin, and Pam Harris.

He was predeceased by his parents; and a brother, Martin.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to HOPE Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 261, Ironwood, MI 49938.

The family would like to give special thanks to the Ironwood Public Safety officers, Beacon Ambulance personnel and the medical examiner investigator, who went above and beyond in attending to Mike.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.