Gerald "Jerry" Clement Sweeney, 96, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026, at TC Chaplaincy hospice house, surrounded by the love of his children.

Born on August 30, 1929, in Presho, South Dakota, to Sylvester and Veronica (Jacoby) Sweeney, Jerry was raised on a humble farm. As an adolescent, Jerry formed a lifelong friendship with Larry Cleveland, a bond that remained a meaningful part of his life for decades. Jerry eventually left the farm and founded his own electrical company, Sweeney Electric.

On February 22, 1960, Jerry married Elizabeth "Betty" Mollman at St. Michael's Church in Watauga, South Dakota. Together they began their married life in The Dalles, Oregon where Jerry worked as a union electrician before moving to Yakima, Washington where they welcomed their two children. In 1965, they settled in Kennewick and built the family home that became a gathering place filled with warmth, love, and countless cherished memories.

Jerry will be remembered for his gentle spirit, quiet strength, generous heart, kindness, humor, quick wit, creativity, engineering skills, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. A proud member of IBEW Local Union 112 and a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus, he found purpose in providing for his family, helping neighbors, and volunteering at St. Joseph's Church. Above all, Jerry treasured his role as husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He had an extraordinary ability to build or repair nearly anything, and some of his family's fondest memories were made beside him in the shop, listening to his stories and learning from his example.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Betty; daughter, Pam Mewes (Brad); son, Ken Sweeney (Michelle); grandchildren, Leanne, Melissa, Kristine, Nick, Megan, Alana, and Naomi; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Veronica Sweeney; his siblings, Sylvester, Delores, Lawrence, Patricia, Martha, Paul, Mike, and Leroy; and his grandson, David.

Jerry's life was a testament to faith, generosity and unconditional love. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched through his kindness, wisdom and example. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.

Services:

Monday, June 22nd at St. Joseph's Church, Kennewick (small church/chapel)

Rosary at 10:30

Funeral Mass at 11:00

Burial at Desert Lawn Memorial Park

Reception at St. Joseph's Church

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of the donor's choice in Jerry's memory.