Sweeney : Richard ‘Rick’ William
May 1, 1963 – October 2, 2025
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Richard William Sweeney, affectionately known as “Rick”/”Ricky” or “Sue”/“Suesy” to many in his hometown of Schomberg. Rick passed away at home on October 2, 2025, following a courageous battle with an aggressive form of cancer. He was in his 63rd year.
Rick was predeceased by his loving parents, Gloria Anne Sweeney (nee Pearce) and Richard Patrick Sweeney, whose values and spirit he carried forward throughout his life.
Rick is survived by his wife Barbara Cairns, who stood by his side with unwavering love and support. He was the proud father of Justin Sweeney (Connie), and Kelsey Maroney (Jessie). Rick is also remembered by Barb’s children, Kerri (Steve) and Amanda (Robin). He was also a beloved Poppy to Olivia, Maeve, Ayden, Lillian, Liam and Adaline, who brought immense joy and laughter into his life.
Rick is lovingly remembered by his siblings: Deborah Edwards (Paul) and Shawn Sweeney (Carla). He will be greatly missed by his nieces and nephews: Ryan Edwards (Melanie), Kyle Edwards (Tiffany), Aidan Sweeney, Ally Sweeney, and great niece Rylie Edwards, who admired his warmth, humor, and generosity.
A lifelong athlete, Rick was known for his passion and skill in a wide range of sports, especially hockey. His commitment to youth development was evident in his tireless support of minor hockey in his hometown of Schomberg, and locally in the Town of New Tecumseth (TNT). As a coach, Rick led youth hockey teams to five All Ontario Championship titles, a testament to his leadership, mentorship, and deep understanding of the game. His impact on young athletes continues to resonate throughout the community.
Professionally, Rick was a master artisan in the marble and granite industry. He was one of the rare few with the expertise to operate the bridge saw and perform the intricate art of book matching stone an exceptional skill that earned him admiration and respect among his peers.
Rick will be remembered not only for his talents and achievements but for his kindness, humility, and the quiet strength with which he faced life’s challenges. His legacy is one of love, mentorship, and excellence.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Trisan Centre, 25 Dillane Drive, Schomberg, ON L0G 1T0, on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., followed by a private family service.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Rick’s memory to support youth sports and hockey development causes that were close to Rick’s heart.
Help The Kids Play (HTKP)
Provides financial assistance to children so they can participate in recreational activities such as hockey, soccer, dance, swimming, and more.
https://www.helpthekidsplay.ca
Jumpstart
Helps children overcome financial and accessibility barriers to sport and recreation, promoting inclusive play for kids of all abilities.
https://jumpstart.canadiantire.ca
Online condolences and memories may be left at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
Service
Celebration of Life
Trisan Centre
25 Dillane Drive, Schomberg, ON L0G 1T0,
Saturday, November 22, 2025
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Yarima McCullough & family says
Kelsey we love you and are thinking of you and your family during this immense loss. I’m sorry for the too early goodbye with your father and we wish you all the best in this next stage in your life.
Tanya Williamson says
My condolences Barb to you and the family, Rick will be greatly missed but will forever be in your hearts
Anna and Sergio Colalillo says
So sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. Condolences to the whole family.
Deb Flanagan says
My condolences to you all on Rick’s passing. I recall many fun hockey games at the rink and on the bus at away games with Rick leading and mentoring the young guys.
Nancy Andrew says
I was so saddened to hear of Rick’s passing. The last time l saw him was this summer outside on main. Always with a hello or hey. A staple of the town of Schomberg.
Gone too soon.
JoAnn Petersen says
So sorry for the family and friends left behind to mourn Rick. May the happy memories you have and can share will help you through this difficult time.
Todd Marchant says
To all of Rick’s Family,
Our most sincere condolences go out to you all.
Todd, Marilou and Don Marchant
Jacqueline (Conlan), Tony and Leighton Costanzo says
We fondly remember Rick from many years ago when he played hockey with Tony in Schomberg. Rick was a wizard on the ice—a skilled hockey player—with a great talent for scoring goals in almost every game!
Sending our deepest sympathy and prayers to all the Sweeney families at this very grievous time. May you find comfort in the love of those around you and strength in the memories you hold so very dear.
Always remember—
“Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories”.
With caring thoughts,
Tony, Jacqueline and Leighton
Jean and Keith Dale says
So sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. Thinking of you all.
Kelly MacMillan says
Dear Barb & Family & The Sweeney Family
My sincere condolences to you all. Losing “Ricky”( as I have always known him ) as quickly (a blessing for him) as you did will require some time to come to terms with. Sending you all love and light as you heal. ✨
May he Rest in Peace️
Susan Rainey says
May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this challenging time.
Pat Tough says
My deepest condolences to all the family. Rick certainly was an icon of Schomberg spirit both on and off the ice. Even with a helmet on you could tell who he was by his smile. He is gone way to young and will be missed by many
Robert (Bob) and Linda Boak says
Our Condolences to the family. Your mother was one of my best friends while going up.
Marilyn, Randy, and, Meghan Pelley says
To the Sweeney families:
We are so sorry to hear of Rick’s passing! Sending our love and condolences to all of you! We are keeping you in our thoughts and Prayers! We always enjoyed Rick’ s company at family get togethers at Shawn and Carla’s. He had a real genuine smile and was always up for a good laugh! Rest Easy Rick!
Judi Burkitt says
To the whole Sweeney clan
So sorry to hear of Rick’s death. There are many who will miss his cheery smile and greeting when he saw them. A little piece of the old Schomberg is missing.
Red & Melanie Jackson says
Our sincerest condolences to the entire family.
We are so very sorry for your loss.
rene turchet says
we enjoyed rick’s company when we visited our family in tottenham. they’re was always laughter and spirited dialogue especially if the subject of maple leafs was introduced. we offer our love and comfort to the family he left. love jean (carla sweeney’s aunt) & rene turchet
Ken King says
Deepest condolences and may Rick rest in peace.
Ken and Sharon King and family
Mary Wiley says
Our very deepest sympathies to Barb and the entire family may our thoughts and prayers help you through this very difficult time RIP Rick
Garry and Mary
Chris Ludlow says
Condolence’s to all of Rick’s family. You will be missed Rick!
R.I.P
Chelsea Steeves says
thinking of you all during this very difficult time.
I will cherish all of the happy memories that our families shared with uncle ricky at the centre of many of them.
sending love and peace to you all ♡
Larry & Glenna Gould says
it is with great sadness that we learned of Rick’s passing. Our sympathies to his family and many friends.
Jean Judge & Ross Brown says
So sorry for your loss, are thoughts are with you.
Jean & Ross
Fern Lessard says
So very sorry to hear of Ricks passing. He was such a nice guy. My condolences to all the family.
Heather Brandow says
Sincere sympathy to the Family. Rick was a great neighbour who became our friend. He was always checking on Garry through his cancer journey. R.I.P. Rick.
Paul Gourlay says
My thoughts go out to everyone in your family. Rick was much older than me growing up, however, having an older brother of the same age as Rick and considering Shawn to be a good friend of mine throughout my school years I was still included in hearing all the stories about Rick. All funny, and all good. He will be missed by many.
Paul Gourlay
Amy Tomlinson says
Our deepest condolences Barb. May Rick Rest in Peace
Daryl Evans says
Sincerest condolences from Daryl,Kath and family from the UK
Sheil Foulkes(Evans) says
Sincere and heartfelt condolences to Rick’s family. Will be remembered as he let my son play football in his team when over from the UK visiting family in Schomberg.