Linda Sweet

Sweet, Linda J. Allegan, MI Linda Jo Sweet (White) died peacefully on May 2nd, 2021. She was born to Marguerite (Clark) and Ralph White on June 30, 1949. She was preceded in death by her mother, father, and brother, Tom. She is survived by her 3 children: Sara (David) Harman of Allegan, Scot (Aimee) Sweet of Battle Ground WA, and Samantha Sweet (Paul Wirth) of Allegan, and 7 grandchildren, Gabrielle and Charlotte Harman, Ethan and Hanalei Sweet, Jaden and Carter Roberts and Allie Wirth. Jo grew up a hard worker, a trait she learned from her father. Before she became the "hardware" lady, she was a butcher for Harding's grocery store. This was a job that she loved and would tell stories of frequently. After her butcher career ended, she took over as co-owner and manager of Ace Hardware in Allegan, a business that started with her brother. Although Jo had only three children, she was "Mama Sweet" to many more kids. She was always ready to help her children's friends, whether it was treats after a driveway basketball game, or a place to stay. She was not a person that turned away someone that needed help. After over 25 years at Ace, Jo retired and took on the role of Grandma Jo Jo. She watched her oldest grandson Jaden from the time he was born until he went to school. They had many great adventures together and she cherished those times. Once she fully retired from babysitting, Jo would spend most of her time walking. She would wake up early, head down to Bubba's for a coffee and then head home. She would then head out for another walk in the afternoon. One of her favorite stops was the local pharmacy to the see gals working behind the counter. If Jo was not at home, she was walking. Jo was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. She was an avid volunteer, helping with holiday parties, funerals or walking in parades. Jo also loved flamingos. It was not uncommon for her to put flamingo yard sticks up in yards or around town. Her way of spreading a little humor and joy. Another love of hers was motorcycles. A rider herself, she had a love for Harley's, as was apparent from her Harley jean jacket she would often wear. I could go on and on about Linda Jo, she was my mother. I do not think one truly appreciates their mother until they are older and possibly a parent themselves. Although she was a single mom, that did not stop her from taking us on trips and showing us the love, we needed. She did so much for us and for others. Whether you knew her as Linda, Jo, mom, Mama Sweet, or grandma, she will be deeply missed. A celebration of life and luncheon will take place on Sunday May 16th from 12-3 at the Eagles in Allegan with a motorcycle procession at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alzheimer's Association. Messages of condolence may be posted at winkelfuneralhome.com.