Neal A. Sweebe

Neal A. Sweebe, age 79 of Midland, passed away at his home on the morning of October 22, 2024. He was born on March 19, 1945 to the late Charles Homer and Mary Margaret (Schaefer) Sweebe in Midland where he was raised. Neal graduated from Midland High School in 1963 and went on to work in the Service Department at Dow Corning Corporation. While off work due to an injury, Neal chose to start his excavating business in 1972, incorporating it in 1974 as Neal A. Sweebe, Inc., now known as Neal Sweebe Excavating, which is still in operation. He was a member of the American Legion, the Midland Eagles Club, and the Bricklayers' International Union of America. Neal and Pat also own Lapelle's Flowers and Gifts here in Midland.

Neal married the former Patricia Ellis on August 14, 1971, and they shared 53 years. Together they raised their three children, Angela (Dan) Ware, Mary Sweebe, and Ryan Sweebe. Neal was an awesome father, always saying "yes" to every request. Neal dearly loved his only granddaughter, Alayna Ware. Also surviving are his siblings, Sara Krotzer, Chris (Marilyn) Sweebe, Fran (Darryl) Hahn, and Sandy (Dale) Demski, and sister in-law, Piccola Sweebe. Neal is also survived by Pat's siblings, Mike Ellis and Chris Stokes.

Neal was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Margaret Sweebe, siblings, Lawrence Sweebe, Jon Sweebe, and Jerry Sweebe; half sister, Betty June (Ernest) Jacobs; and brother-in-law, Lloyd Krotzer.

Neal and Pat owned their house in the U.P. for many years and often times he would go up there for some peace and quiet. The U.P. was also one of Neal's favorite "hunting" spots. When at home in Midland, Neal loved being outside tending to his vegetable garden, something he did with exceptional precision. Anyone who visited, left with a bag of potatoes. Neal will also be remembered for the love he had for animals, especially the dogs he raised over the years.

Memorial services for Neal will be held at 12:00 pm on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at the Wilson Miller Funeral Home, 4210 North Saginaw Road, Midland, MI 48640. Visitation will be on Saturday from 10:00 am until the time of service. Memorial contributions may be offered to the Humane Society of Midland County.