William J. Sweeney, 63, of Newton, N.H., and formerly of Haverhill, passed away Saturday, Oct. 31, at Lawrence General Hospital, surrounded by his family.
Born in Haverhill, he was the son of the late John R. Sweeney and Loretta A. (Smith) West. He was raised and educated in Haverhill, attending St. James Grammar School and graduating from Haverhill Trade School. After graduation he served his country in the United States Marine Corp, serving in Vietnam. Sweeney was a handyman and helped many people with his skills. He could fix anything and scoured flea markets and yard sales for finds that he could restore and give to anyone in need. He was a collector as well of all the treasures he found. Sweeney was an avid boater and enjoyed fishing in the local waters. Most of all he enjoyed his family, especially his beloved grandchildren.
Surviving him are his children, David E. Sweeney of Georgetown, John R. and Tammy J. Sweeney of Jeffersonville, Ind., Serena L. Sweeney of Haverhill and Stephanie M. and Christopher D. Woodsum of Bradford; grandchildren, Sapphire Sweeney, Michael Butler, Paige Sweeney, Hailey Woodsum, Kyle Woodsum, Aleczander Sweeney, Hunter Sweeney, Laura Case and Abigail Freeman; brothers, Daniel Sweeney, Edward Sweeney of Rochester, N.H., John West of Hampton, N.H., and Kevin West of Haverhill; sisters, Theresa Vison of W.V., and Tammy West of Haverhill; and longtime companion Nancy Nihan and her children, Theresa Case, Heather Freeman and Holly Freeman. He also leaves his ex-wife and best friend Mary Sweeney.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours Tuesday, Nov. 10, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main St., Haverhill. Funeral services will follow at 7 in the funeral home.