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Bernard J. Sweeney, 86, of Mountain Top, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in Wilkes-Barre on July 21, 1939, he was the son of the late Joseph and Maria (Baldwine) Sweeney. Bernard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose love for family and life touched everyone who knew him.
He was the beloved husband of 65 years to Rosalie (Housenick) Sweeney, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and partnership. Bernard was employed as a sheet metal worker with the Wilkes-Barre Local Union 44, where he was respected for his strong work ethic and craftsmanship. He also proudly served in the National Guard.
A man who saw beauty in everything, Bernard lived with kindness, gratitude, and joy. Family meant everything to him—he cherished every gathering, big or small, and his greatest happiness came from time spent with those he loved. He was an avid golfer, especially enjoying rounds with his brothers, and a talented skier, swimmer, and woodworker who could build anything from wood.
His grandchildren adored him—especially his famous pancakes and French toast—and will forever remember his gentle wisdom, and his stories. Bernard had a special way of making everyone feel loved, even animals; he often fed the birds and took joy in caring for all living things.
He also enjoyed writing heartfelt letters, particularly to his grandchildren, and for his favorite question to his loved ones: “Are you satisfied?”—a reminder to live fully and seek happiness. Bernard was a teacher in many ways, from showing his kids how to drive to sharing lessons about life and gratitude.
Bernard is survived by his loving wife, Rosalie Sweeney; his children, Mark Sweeney and his wife Linda of Virginia, Robert Sweeney of Mountain Top, and Sandra Stewart and her husband Tim of Mountain Top; and his cherished grandchildren Remington, Sean, Ian, Aubrey, Timothy, Ariana, and Grace. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Jerome and Joseph Sweeney.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, November 11, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Leo’s Church in Ashley, with visitation from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass.
Bernard will be remembered as a man of deep love, quiet strength, and endless wisdom—a man who made the world brighter simply by being in it.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of BERNARD J. SWEENEY, please visit our floral store.