It is with a heavy heart that the North Reading Fire Department regrets to announce the passing of Deputy Ralph J. Sweetland Jr., ret., who passed away on Saturday, April 9, 2022.
Deputy Sweetland proudly served the North Reading Fire Department for over 40 years, beginning with his appointment to the department as 1 of 2 permanent firefighters in September of 1952. Three months after his appointment, Deputy Sweetland took military leave to join the United States Marine Corps serving his country for 3 years during the Korean War and being honorably discharged in 1955.
After his discharge from the Marine Corps, Deputy Sweetland worked at his family’s business, D & S Service Station on Park Street, North Reading and as a part-time Call Firefighter for the North Reading Fire Department until he was re-appointed as a full-time firefighter in March of 1967.
Once re-appointed as a full-time firefighter, Deputy Sweetland held the rank of Lieutenant from April of 1970 until he was promoted to Deputy Chief in February of 1974.
Deputy Sweetland served in this position until his retirement on June 5, 1992, while also serving briefly as Acting Fire Chief in 1986.
Deputy Sweetland was an extremely active person, enjoying boating skiing and woodworking.
While always remaining busy and active, Deputy Sweetland was completely devoted to his family throughout his life and is survived by his wife Priscilla, son Karl and daughter Kristine and is pre-deceased by his son Brian and daughter Lissa.
Arrangements for Deputy Sweetland are as follows:
Wake: Monday, May 16 from 4pm to 7pm
Service: Tuesday, May 17 at 11am
Location for both the wake and service will be at:
Croswell’s Funeral Home
19 Bow Street
North Reading, MA 01864