Joseph Melvin Sweat was a man of character and enduring legacy. On July 13th, 1935, he was born to Melven Sweat and Florence Mary Ricord, in Heber, Utah. He peacefully departed from this world on October 28th, 2023 in Stansbury Park, Utah.
Joseph’s life included two significant love stories. On August 17th, 1962, he married the love of his life, Rita Annette Fredrickson, in Salt Lake City, Utah. They first crossed paths when Annette was in search of a horse trainer. As destiny would have it, their lives intertwined in the most unexpected way. Throughout their marriage they were inseparable. Joseph was lost after Annette’s death in 1992. Through service and family genealogy, he found love again and married Ruth Burr Brady on March 22nd, 1996. Joseph and Ruth spend many wonderful years together, until her death in 2012.
Joseph’s life was marked by his love for horses. He spent many hours with family and friends riding horses along trails far and wide. His affinity for horses was not just confined to recreational activities; it was a significant part of his life as well. Joseph was the proud owner of the Open Star Ranch. He served as the President of the Utah Appaloosa Horse Club and later served as National Director within the Appaloosa Horse Club.
Coupled with his passion for horses, Joseph loved exploring new places, hunting and camping with his family. As the kids matured, the focus for Joseph and Annette became miniature donkeys and mules.
Joseph served in the United States Air Force. He also had a long career with Hercules Aeropspace Division. Often, he was troubleshooting personnel, production and safety issues within the company.
Joseph is survived by his children Bonnie Sweat, Melven (Andrea) Sweat, David (Maria) Sweat; sister Anna (Tad) Spader; 17 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren; sisters-in-law Glenna Sweat and Carol Sweat; and many beloved family and friends.
Joseph was preceded in death by both his wives Rita Annette Sweat and Ruth Burr Brady Sweat; siblings Mary Lu Sweat, Rella Sweat Gandy, Delbert Sweat, Lewis Sweat, Raymond Sweat, Baby Girl Sweat, Marvin “Jim” Sweat, Gary Sweat, Robert “Bob” Sweat; and daughter-in-law Cory Saxey Sweat.
A viewing will be held on Sunday, November 5th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Bayshore Ward, 5899 Bayshore Drive, Stansbury Park, UT.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 6th at 11:00 AM with a viewing from 9:30 to 10:45 AM at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. Dimple Dell Rd. (10600 S.), Sandy. To view previously held services please click on the link provided https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/PlwKkDdhuEeg7Cq1ickG1oYo2a1SbVd8K1OcZcLh521RgbYrL5YXAIHNX0nwnQbE.KG5bkHsjcM624CZc?startTime=1699292522000.
We are so sorry to hear about your dad. Please accept our condolences. He was a really great man.
Dad,
The house, while not empty, has a great void as we lost an important part of our family. It was a struggle at times, but it was always a blessing having you in our home and in our lives. You will be greatly missed here, but, oh what an incredible reunion you must have had at Heaven's gates. Mom adored you and I know you adored her. Even as I held your hand as you slipped away from us, I felt mom's presence as she took your hand from me and walked you to the veil. Oh, what a glorious day!
Godspeed dad. Until we meet again.
Love,
David and Maria. We love you.
What can I say? This man was a superhuman when I first met him. I was a little intimidated at 21 but he grew on me and I really liked him. He taught me so much, especially about gratitude and perseverance. I'm so sorry for everyone's family❤️
So sorry to hear about the loss of your sweet dad. Loved him dearly! I remember waking up to his donkeys braying every morning. And one of our best dogs was an offspring if his little dog Rosie. We had Trapper for about 13 yrs. We remember your dear mom Annette and how he took her on her dream vacation to Hawaii and they stopped by afterwards to give us a gift of chocolate macadamia nuts, (always thinking of others even when she was so sick)!! Dennis and Shauna
So sorry to hear about the loss of your sweet dad. Loved him dearly! I remember waking up to his donkeys braying every morning. And one of our best dogs was an offspring if his little dog Rosie. We had Trapper for about 13 yrs. We remember your dear mom Annette and how he took her on her dream vacation to Hawaii and they stopped by afterwards to give us a gift of chocolate macadamia nuts, (always thinking of others even when she was so sick)!! Dennis and Shauna
"Joseph Melvin Sweat was a man of character..." This is the perfect opening for his obituary.
I don't have as many memories as others, but what I do remember is how much my parents (Arlo and Nancy Allen) liked and respected him becasue of his character. They are not here but I think they would want me to share their sentiments with you.
The picture provided is exactly how I remember him as a child.
On behalf of the all Allen(s) we want to express our sincere gratitude to his family that shared this man with the world. He made a big impact and lasting impressions on everyone around him.
~Brett A Allen
Joseph you will be missed. Im sure all you Sweats are having a grand party up there. David Melven and Bonnie my deepest condolence I wish I could be there for this sad time but circumstances prevent me. I'm here if you need me. Love you all Aunt Carol
Joseph you will be missed. Im sure all you Sweats are having a grand party up there. David Melven and Bonnie my deepest condolence I wish I could be there for this sad time but circumstances prevent me. I'm here if you need me. Love you all Aunt Carol
To the immediate family of Joseph Melvin Sweat, those who where closest to him, primary his children, I offer my sincere condolences and my prayers are also offered up to the God of Heaven and Earth who is able to provide you with comfort in your time of sorrow.and grief.
To the immediate family of Joseph Melvin Sweat, those who where closest to him, primary his children, I offer my sincere condolences and my prayers are also offered up to the God of Heaven and Earth who is able to provide you with comfort in your time of sorrow.and grief.