Ronald A. Sweeney

Ronald A. Sweeney, 63, of Springvale, died Wednesday, October 18, 2006, at his home surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. Ronald, better known as "Big Ron" by friends and family, was born on September 17, 1943, in Sanford, Maine, the son of Alphy and Dorothy Sweeney. Big Ron, an Army veteran, proudly served his country from 1965-1967. After his service, Ron worked for H.E. Carpenter as a Mason. In 1973, Ron began his 32-year career with Central Maine Power Company reading meters and ultimately working up to First class Lineman. During this 32 year journey, Ron was able to not only work for his community, but was able to build many strong relationships with his co-workers. This bond and his work ethic was the foundation of which he passed on to others. Ron was always concerned with getting the job done and done right, but more importantly, safe. The group Ron worked with at CMP, was more like a family, and he cared for them just the same.Ronald is survived by his wife of 41 years Carolyn Sweeney, his four children, Ronni Lynn Champlin and her husband Jason of Alfred, Hayes Sweeney and his wife Lori of Hollis, Lee-Ann Cole and her husband Jack of Shapleigh and Colton Sweeney of Acton. He was also blessed with nine grandchildren. Ronald is survived by three sisters, Faye Lowry of Rochester NH, Elaine Needham of Dover NH, and Pam Sweeney of Manchester NH and a brother, Richard Sweeney of Springvale.Ronald was devoted to his family and loved his grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Bumpa." From going fishing, to taking walks in the woods, to teaching them to ride a bike, Bumpa was always there to help. Even through the tough times of sitting for hours watching the "kid shows" Bumpa was there just spending time with them all. Even the big kids, his own, he never passed up an opportunity to spend time with them, but was always there to help. From moving to building houses, to simply giving some advice as to how something was done, Big Ron was there. Ron was an avid outdoorsman, who looked forward to each new season of fishing and hunting. Ron never hesitated to help out and teach anyone the art of fishing and hunting, just don't ask where his secrete spots were. The gifts given to many will only be surpassed by his love for his family and the outdoors. He found great joy watching the eyes grow big of those he touched, as they caught that first fish or tagged that first deer or turkey. The joy was in the gift he passed to others, as they grew and demonstrated those lessons. Even when the first fish got away, or the deer or turkey ran off, he was always there to reassure you that one can never give up. As with that lesson taught and now lived, Big Ron did not give up, for he lived his life the best way he could, by taking care of those he loved so much, that the lesson will live for ever.Ronald was very active as a member of the Pleasant Street Free Baptist Church in Springvale. At the family's request, there will be no formal services, however, if desired, memorial donations may be made to the Gleaners, care of the Pleasant Street Free Baptist Church at 6-10 Pleasant Street, Springvale, Maine 04083.The family would like to express their gratitude to all of those who have called, visited, and prepared meals, Thank you and God Bless.Condolences may be expressed by using the tab to the left.