Donald E. Sweeney

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Donald Sweeney on May 13, 2023.

Donald Eugene Sweeney (Don) was born to Parnel and Hanna Sweeney on April 9, 1942, in Casper, Wyoming.  He attended Natrona County High School and earned an associate’s degree from Casper College.  He was later drafted into the Army and served his country in Vietnam from 1967-1968.   Upon his return to the US, Don bought an apartment complex and rented one unit to a charming young woman, Roberta Engle.  They were married in 1970 and had two children, Brian and Katie.

The family moved to Scottsbluff, NE, where Don and Roberta made their home for 43 years.  It was there that they discovered not only a place to reside but a loving community that became their family and the foundation of their lives.  They joined the Presbyterian church where he was a deacon and he continued to volunteer with the Boy Scouts as a troop leader as he had done in Casper.  Don worked for Burroughs/Unisys for 18 years as computer technician followed by 15 years at  Connecting Point, a local computer store in town, and a stint with his own company, PrinterPro.  In 2018, Don retired and he and Roberta started out on a new adventure moving to Shawnee, KS, to be close to their daughter and her family.

Throughout his life, Don had an unwavering commitment to his loved ones.  He was a pillar of support for his children and encouraged them to pursue their dreams and embrace life's challenges with determination.  He was a devoted husband and nurtured a deep and abiding love for Roberta with whom he shared a lifetime of beautiful memories.  He was a loyal friend to everyone blessed to meet him.  When you needed to find Don, chances were he was out fishing, working in the yard, or drinking coffee with his cronies at McDonalds.

Don is survived by his wife of 53 years, Roberta, and their two children, Brian (Cathy) and Katie Komer (Joseph); grandchildren Colby Sweeney, Brock Sweeney, Lauren Komer, Sarah Komer, Kaylee Stultz, and Elijah Bellies; and his sister Debbie Merrill (Max).

Donald was predeceased by his parents Parnel and Hanna Sweeney and his brothers Bobbie and Richard Sweeney.

A celebration of life will be held in Shawnee, KS, on Sunday, May 28th from 2pm-4pm at his daughter’s residence.  If you wish to attend, please email ktbugkomer@gmail.com for address information.  A memorial service will be held in Scottsbluff, NE, and will be announced by the family.

Those who wish to express their condolences may consider making a donation to Kansas Honor Flight in memorial to Donald Sweeney, PO Box 2371, Hutchinson, KS 67504.