Dennis Michael Sweeney's Obituary
Dennis Michael Sweeney, 77, of Bartlett TN passed away Wednesday, May 23, 2018. A man of great character, intellect and one who lived his life on his terms and to the fullest, Dennis was an amazing father and friend to many. He will be missed by so many who appreciated his unique brand of integrity and wit. Dennis was one of the original employees of FedEx and founder of its third party logistics division. He joined in 1973 and along with Rosemary Sweeney, moved his family of seven from New Hampshire to Bartlett, TN. He retired from FedEx in 1998 with a tremendous bank of amazing tales. Since then, he has been engaged in multiple interesting ventures as well as an extensive teaching career at college levels. He was most recently enjoying teaching at a local federal prison, where his passion for logistics and appreciation of the enthusiasm of his students gave him great purpose. He was also a proud member of the U.S. Air Force, serving as a medic until 1962 , and had multiple engineering roles in New England before joining FedEx. He was endearingly referred to by his children and grandchildren as “Chief”, which is a testament to his warmth and openness. He was fiercely devoted to his family. He is survived by two brothers: Eugene (Pat) Sweeney, Maurice (Mary Carol) Sweeney, his 5 children: Gene (Leigh Ann) Sweeney, Mike (Denise) Sweeney, Anne Sparrenberger, Colleen Cheatham and Cathy (Brian) Booth, eleven grandchildren: Rachel Sweeney, Tyler Sweeney, Hannah Sweeney, Ashley (Mitch) Lawrence, Davis Magee, Lindsey (Nick) May, Samuel Sparrenberger, Logan Cheatham, Allie Cheatham, Bradley Presley, Kevin Presley, and 5 great grandchildren: Emma Claire May, Olivia Lawrence, Mary Russel Lawrence, Charlotte May, Anderson Lawrence. He was preceded in death by his parents: Eugene and Katherine Sweeney. Dennis also leaves a league of dear friends and formal colleagues who he appreciated and dearly respected. He loved to engage in a good argument and was extremely proud of his Philadelphia and Irish heritage. May he rest eternally in the great peace of the Lord. Services celebrating the life of Dennis Sweeney will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis TN 38119 The family will receive friends beginning at 1:30 p.m. and a service celebrating his life will follow at 2:30 p.m., Friday, May 25. A light reception will immediately follow in the Parkside Event Center of Memorial Park Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St Jude Childrens Hospital or the American Cancer Society.
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