Longtime Prothonotary Sweeley Passes Away at 96

LOCK HAVEN – Richard K. Sweeley, Clinton County Prothonotary for 28 years, died Saturday, July 1, 2017 at Susque-View Home, Lock Haven. He was 96.

He was born in Lock Haven on February 28, 1921, the son of the late George A. and Alta M. Martz Sweeley. Dick was a 1939 graduate from Lock Haven High School and was the first clarinet chair in the high school band. He was married to the late Elizabeth Lovette and celebrated 65 years of marriage prior to her passing.

Dick served in the U.S. Army in the finance department during World War II, serving his last year in Germany.

After being discharged from the Army in 1946, he worked several different jobs including carpentry, insurance sales and for Social Security. Dick was elected as County Treasurer, serving one term before being elected as Prothonotary, serving for 28 years before his retirement.

Along with several other men, Dick played a key role in starting Belles Springs Golf Course – finding the ground, money and builders for the project. He was also instrumental in helping to create Crafts, Inc.

He was a lifetime member of the Beech Creek American Legion and Lock Haven Elks. He was also a member of the Lions Club, Citizens Hose Fire Company and VFW. Dick was proud to have served as a Democratic Delegate at the Democratic National Convention in 1956.

Dick loved to golf, fish, hunt, attend Penn State football games and Thursday afternoon card club with his friends.

Dick is survived by a brother, Donald (Zetta) Sweeley of Rote; a grandson, Beau Warren of New York; a granddaughter, Kelbey Warren of Florida; and two great granddaughters.In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a son, Gary Sweeley and a daughter, Barbara McKenna.

A memorial graveside service will be held on Friday, July 7, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Rest Haven Memorial Park, 47 Rest Haven Dr., Lock Haven, Pa 17745 with Rev. Dennis Callahan officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Clinton County SPCA, 33 Mill Hill Rd., Lock Haven, Pa 17745. Arrangements are under the direction of the Donald G. Walker Funeral Home, Inc., 231 High St., Flemington, Pa 17745.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.donaldwalkerfuneralhome.com

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