Rev. Robert K. Sweet

Rev. Robert K. Sweet was called home to join so many of his loved ones in heaven on May 19, 2013.  He was born October 18, 1927 in Altoona to the late Marie (Emeigh) Sweet and Chester E. Sweet.

He married H. Kathryn (Holler) Sweet on September 17, 1948.  Kathryn preceded him in death on October 19, 2002.

Bob’s early life was committed to service.  In his young adult life, he served as a corporal in the US Army Air Force with the 366th Bomber Squadron from 1945-1947.

Throughout adulthood, Bob served his community through local government as a Bedford County Commissioner and County Treasurer for 12 years and as the Chairman of the Republican Party.  He served as a leader in numerous organizations including; President of the Southern Allegany’s Planning and Development Commission, President of the Bedford County Republican Club, President of the Southwest Commissioners Association, Co-Founder of the Bedford Kiwannis Club and he served as Lieutenant Governor of Division 10.  He was active in numerous other organizations.

Bob’s life of service continued as a spiritual leader.  He received his Master’s Degree from Lancaster Theological Seminary after completing his undergraduate work at Penn State University.  His ministerial work began at Salem UCC in Martinsburg and continued as he served the UCC congregations in Hollidaysburg and Williamsburg.  Bob also served as minister of Christ’s Church located in Old Bedford Village.  He was the past president of the United Church of Christ Juniata Association.

In 1975, Bob started work as administrator and director of Old Bedford Village.  He was responsible for building and staffing the village, which opened to the public in 1976.  He retired as president in May 1997.

In addition to service to his community, Bob was also committed to his family.  He was an accomplished son, a devoted and loyal husband to Kathryn and an unconditionally supportive father to his daughters, Candy and Iris and a generous and loving grandfather to his granddaughters, Tannen, Megan, Nicole and Brittany and to his eight great-grandchildren.  In addition to his daughters, granddaughters and great-grandchildren, Bob is also survived by two sisters, Nellie Sypherd and Joyce Walls.  He was preceded in death by a brother and two sisters.

As a friend, he was known to be loyal and dependable.  Bob was always there to provide counsel and a kind ear.  He was the first to lend a hand to those in need.

Although those he leaves behind will miss him deeply, we take comfort in knowing he will be greeted in heaven by so many loved ones that have awaited his arrival.. Bob embarks upon this final journey with the quiet confidence of a man of great faith who truly lived a life of honor.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 13, 2013 at 6:00 PM at Old Bedford Village.

Interment will be held at Bedford County Memorial Park.

Arrangements entrusted to Louis Geisel Funeral Home, Bedford.