Edward Sweet

Edward Sweet, 80, of Austin, Texas, died Friday, May 11, 2012, from heart failure. A former resident of Blissfield, Michigan and Bradenton, Florida, he had resided at The Heritage at Gaines Ranch Loop, Austin since December. Born March 20, 1932, in Detroit, MI, to Walter and Grace (Terry) Sweet, Ed was a 1950 graduate of Portage Central High School. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1951-1955, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. It was during this time, Ed met the love of his life and best friend, Janet D. Scripture of Bangor, Maine. Married May 15, 1954, they celebrated 55 years of marriage until Janet’s death in 2009. Ed earned a degree in chemistry from Western Michigan University in 1959 and went to work at Dow Corning Corporation as a research and development chemist at the Midland, MI, plant, transferring to Elizabethtown, KY in 1963, and moving back to Midland in 1967. During his time with Dow Corning, Ed was awarded two US Patents for his work with silicone sealants. In 1970, he joined Wacker Chemical, Adrian, where he continued his work with silicone research, retiring in 1994. While at Wacker, he and Janet had the opportunity to travel, visiting Mexico, Germany and many cities across the United States. Upon retirement, they enjoyed time at Pottawatomie Campground in Coldwater, MI, and Bayshore Windmill Village, Bradenton, Fl. Ed was a devoted and supportive father and grandfather who truly enjoyed both sharing meals and having lively discussions with David, Elizabeth and Emily, watching the Detroit Tigers (and, at times, the Lions), bragging about “the kids”, listening to “true” bluegrass music, drinking a good cup of coffee, repeatedly exploring Home Depot, growing roses, and sipping a Beam & soda. Ed is survived by his children: Cathleen (Paul) Griffith, Palmyra; Steven (Randa) Sweet, Toledo, Ohio; Thomas (Kathy) Sweet, Austin, TX; grandchildren: David Sweet, Dallas, TX; Elizabeth and Emily Sweet, Austin, TX; and many nieces and nephews. His wife, parents, and siblings Carl and Evelyn preceded him in death. Visitation will be Saturday, May 19, 2012, at Wagley Funeral Home, Tagsold Chapel, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with graveside services immediately following at Pleasant View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a memorial donation be made to the American Heart Association or Hospice of Lenawee. Ed’s family also offers heartfelt thanks to all our friends and family for their continuing love and support throughout Ed’s battle with heart disease. You may also send condolences to the family at www.WagleyFuneralHome.com.

Edward Sweet

March 20, 1932 - May 12, 2012