John Mack Sweet, 78, of Altoona died Thursday, December 1, 2016 at UPMC Altoona.

He was born in Anderson, SC, on February 16,1938, son of Leroy and Edna (Duckworth) Sweet. He attended Thornwell School in Clinton, SC. Upon graduation, he entered the United States Marine Corps, where he served for twenty years, having completed three tours of duty in Viet Nam achieving the rank of Gunnery Sergeant.

After his honorable discharge, he went into business with his friend, Joe Passanita, forming J&J Trucking of Cresson delivering coal all over Cambria County. After retiring from riding the high seat of a coal bucket for 10 years, he worked in the purchasing department of Van Zandt VA Medical Center of Altoona, retiring again in 2002.

He married his wife, Jacqueline, in 1993, and they spent the next twenty-three years happily remodeling their 100 year-old house. The only time he ever cursed was when the Steelers did something really stupid.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three children, Therese Azara and husband Daniel of Willmington, DE; John M. Sweet, Jr. and wife Elizabeth of Purcellville, VA; and M. Ellen Jeremiah and husband TJ of Carlsbad, CA.

John was the proud and loving grandfather of six exceptional grandchildren, Kayla, Josh and Lindsey Sweet; Akexandra Azara; Alexis Yandle; and Jake Jeremiah.

He is also survived by his sister, Mrs. Margaret Cassel and husband David of Chillacothe, OH and by Mrs. Jane B. Sweet of Altoona, the mother of his children.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Jerry Sweet.

John was a dutiful son, a warm and loving husband, a caring and affectionate father, a strong and supportive brother and friend and a positive force in the life of anyone fortunate enough to come within the circle of his kind and non-judgmental personality.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are by Jones Funeral Home, Altoona.