David Sweeney

David B. Sweeney passed away in Arcadia, CA on April 05, 2025 at the age of 88.

Dave is deeply missed by his loving wife of 45 years, Diane, their son, Ryan (Stephanie), their grandson Jackon; his son Bill (Sandra), his grandsons Shane (Katherine), and Dillon; and his sister Katie Sweeney Onnen (David).  Dozens of extended family, friends, and former colleagues will miss his companionship, stories and lively conversation.  

Dave was born to William & Betty Sweeney on December 22nd, 1936, in Hollywood, CA.  He grew up exploring the Laurel Canyon area and at a young age developed a love of mechanical things, particularly those with four wheels and an internal combustion engine.  He divided his time as a young man between playing trumpet in the jazz band that he formed to perform at school dances, and his jobs as a newspaper boy, then a mechanic in a number of garages around town.  He graduated from North Hollywood High in 1954 and attended UCLA before joining the Air National Guard, eventually earning the rank of Lieutenant in the United States Air Force.

Dave had a long and storied professional journey (he had hundreds of stories) including stops at General Industrial Tool, Valley Deburring, Standard Abrasives, Federated Sales, and Standard Abrasives (again).  He retired as Executive Vice President of Operations in 2008, after 31 years as a leader and mentor.

In his later years, Dave devoted his time to his family and to his hobby as a sprint car driver, then car owner, with the Western Racing Association.

It is safe to say that Dave will be remembered by all who knew him for his generosity, his humor, and the size of his heart.

In lieu of flowers, please make a charitable donation to the Mary S. Easton Center for Alzheimer's Research at UCLA.