Fred M Sweeney

Fred M. Sweeney, a man of vast experiences and passions, passed away on February 4, 2025 in Mescalero, New Mexico, at the age of 87. He was born on June 11, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, to James A. and Irene Petty Sweeney; soon after they moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico.  He lived a life full of adventure and dedication. Fred was a two-tour veteran of the U.S. Navy, having served his country during the Vietnam War. He was an adventurer at heart, and his career was as diverse as his interests; he worked as a cowboy among the Mescalero Apache, delved into the earth as a miner, served the community as a police officer in Ruidoso, ran a TV repair store and a cable company, worked as an electrician at Fort Stanton, and applied his skills as a licensed explosives expert, journeyman electrician, and woodworker.  

Fred's heart, however, truly belonged to the great outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and camper, finding more joy in the simplicity of life under the canvas of a tent or in the freedom of his RV than in the comforts of home. His love for the stars led him to become an amateur astronomer, and he built his own observatory where he would share his knowledge and passion with those around him. When he wasn’t busy working, he loved to read, play the guitar, harmonica, and banjo, and explore the night sky with his telescopes. He was generous to a fault and sought to help those around him. 

Fred was predeceased by his wives, Cora Elaine Sweeney and Bonnie Fay Sweeney. He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Shickell Sweeney, his siblings Carl Kelley and Susie Kelley Smith, his children Donald Sgambato, Christine Sweeney VanPool, and Beth Sweeney Sanchez. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Tasha Sgambato, Rene Sgambato, Caroline (Katie) Feuerstein, Mason Sanchez, Kelsey Sanchez, Basil VanPool, Roy VanPool, and many great grandchildren.  

Fred's life was a testament to a man who embraced various roles with vigor and lived each day with a sense of adventure. His memory will continue to inspire and be celebrated by all who knew him.

A service to honor Fred's life will be held at Ft. Stanton Cemetery on June 20th at 10:30 am. 

The Sweeney family has entrusted their loved one to the care of New Dawn Cremations.  To sign the online register book, please visit https://www.newdawncremations.com.

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