Evelyn Sweet

Evelyn Sweet was a woman rich in the things that count in life: a strong work ethic, a devout faith, a snappy sense of style and above all, an unconditional love for her family. Blessed with a wonderful sense of humor and compassionate heart, Evelyn brightened the lives of all those around her.

Under the leadership of President Warren G. Harding, America entered into the 1920s with confidence. The politics of the time were turbulent as ever, yet industry had made the U.S. economy surge. The decade would be forever remembered for its carefree and decadent lifestyle. Casper and Helen (Kirsten) Hadaway were far removed from these things that characterized the 1920s. They lived a modest life on their farm in the rural suburbs of Kalamazoo, Michigan. Already the proud parents of one child Thelma, on December 7, 1923, the couple welcomed the birth of their daughter, Evelyn.

Along with her siblings, Evelyn grew up with an appreciation for hard work as her parents made sure the children helped with all the daily farm chores. When she was 4, her mother remarried, Wallace Harmon which gave her two brothers, Clyde and Ed and later a babysister, Mary, who survives. They all moved to a farm on the north side of town for a short time before putting down roots in Plainwell. Evelyn received her education in the Plainwell Public Schools and went on to graduate with the class of 1941. Aside from her studies, Evelyn worked on the farm, but after graduating, she went to work for a few different stores downtown, including a dime store. Eventually, Evelyn got a job as a secretary at the Otsego Creamery for a while, and over the years she pursued this line of work at various other companies.

In the mid 1950s, Evelyn married the love of her life, Raymond Sweet, and together they raised her beautiful daughter Diane. They created many wonderful memories together as a family until tragedy struck in September 1968, when Raymond passed away. Despite being heartbroken, Evelyn remained strong and made a loving home for her daughter. With a soft spot for animals, she always had a cuddly dog running around the house; her favorite (and most recent) four-legged companion was her Scottie named Jet.

Evelyn was always very independent and had an outgoing nature that drew everyone to her. Her family was her greatest blessing in life, and she loved being surrounded by their love and smiles. Those smiles were often the result of Evelyn’s great sense of humor. She loved to crack jokes and her funny little chuckle was quite contagious. Evelyn enjoyed being active, going bowling and dancing at halls every Saturday night. In her quieter moments, she kept her hands busy knitting, crocheting and making quilts. She also liked doing crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles and word searches. Along with her outgoing personality, Evelyn always dressed with class and her hair was perfectly done. Over the years, her faith was also vitally important to her. She attended First Presbyterian Church in Plainwell for many years and regularly attended Sunday worship and then enjoyed lunch out with family and friends. Evelyn relied on her faith for comfort when she lost her beloved daughter Diane in April 2003.

Evelyn will always be remembered for the joy she brought to those around her. She will be dearly missed.

Evelyn Sweet, age 88 of Otsego, MI passed away on Tuesday, May 15, 2012, at the Stanford Lodge. Family will greet friends on Friday, May 18, at 10:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Plainwell; 303 East Bridge Street, with a funeral service following at 11:00 a.m. Please visit Evelyn’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you may share a memory, upload a photo and sign her online guest book. Memorial donations can be made to First Presbyterian Church or Borgess Visiting nurses and hospice.