James “Pete” Sweet, 84, passed away peacefully at his home on December 14, 2024, with his loving daughter by his side.

Pete was born on December 27, 1939, in Monticello, Iowa, to James and Rena (Walthall) Sweet. He was the fourth of five children and the only boy. At the age of two, he earned the nickname “Pete” from his babysitter, and it stayed with him for life.

Determined to join the United States Navy, Pete convinced his parents to let him leave high school early. He later earned his GED.

Pete enlisted in the Navy in 1957. During his service, he was stationed aboard the USS Boxer (CVS-21) from 1957–1958, Agana, Guam from 1958–1960, McMurdo Station in Antarctica (Operation Deep Freeze) from 1962–1966, and aboard the USS Ranger (CVA-61) from 1968–1970. He was awarded the National Defense Medal, Antarctic Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal (1st, 2nd & 3rd), Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon (1 & 2), and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea). He was honorably discharged in 1970.

After returning home, Pete followed in his father’s footsteps and went to work for BN Railroad, where he spent 30 years before retiring in 2000. Pete was an avid gardener, always sharing his bounty with family, friends, and neighbors. He especially loved growing strawberries for his nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. Every year his grandchildren received a homegrown pumpkin to carve for Halloween.

Pete was friendly and outgoing. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. He had a positive attitude, always saw the best in people and in every situation, and lived with a loving and generous spirit. He was a proud father and grandfather.

You fought the good fight, Dad. Time to rest now. I love you.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Rena; sisters Billie, Marilyn, Sandy, and Joanne; brothers-in-law Marvin and Russ; and grandson-in-law Arthur.

He is survived by his daughter, Ronda (Dave); grandchildren Jandy (Brandon), Jason, and Josh (Kayla); great-grandchildren Nathen (Kacey), Katelyn (August), Lena (Brennan), Jocelyn, Heidi, Mason, Spencer, Atley, and Jordan; great-great-grandchildren Addison, Karter, Greyson, Beverley, and Packer; along with several nieces and nephews and many great friends.

Cremation has taken place. No services are planned, per his request.

Champion Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.

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