George Kenneth Sweeten

George K. "Sonny" Sweeten died May 21, 2018 in Fort Collins. He was born at a neighbor's home December 5, 1932 in Wetmore, Colorado to George and Phyllis Sweeten. His father, George, died of polio in 1933. His mother married Louis Camerlo in 1936. Sonny attended school in Florence, Colorado. In 1953 he began service in the Army at Camp Polk, Louisiana and was honorably discharged in 1955. He attended Colorado State University and graduated with a degree in General Ag in 1960. He first worked in real estate sales with Hansen Realty in Fort Collins. Later, he formed Sweeten Land Co. and primarily sold land, ranches and farms.

Growing up, Sonny spent as much time as possible with his cousins and friends at the Draper Ranch in Wetmore and the Everhart Mountain Meadows Ranch. He thoroughly enjoyed life at the ranches and his relationships there.

Sonny loved all things team roping, horses and cattle. He was an amazing hand with animals and won numerous awards over the years in calf roping, team roping and bareback riding competitions. He generously shared his cowboy expertise, mentored and trained others to ride and rope.

Sonny was baptized at St. Benedict's Catholic Church on April 11, 1936. His faith was strong to the end.

He was preceded in death by his father, George Sweeten; mother, Phyllis Sweeten Camerlo; step-father, Louis Camerlo and sister, Jeanne Sweeten Culpin. He is survived by two half-brothers, Ed Camerlo and David Camerlo, cousins, nieces, nephews and many longtime friends and loved ones.

Special thanks should be given to his many caregivers and friends who supported the effort and worked so hard to help him remain home at his beloved rancho.

Cremation has taken place as well as a celebration of life. Contributions in Sonny's memory can be made to Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund in care of Bohlender Funeral Chapel, 121 W. Olive, Fort Collins, CO 80524.