Russell Patterson Sweeney Jr.

Russell Patterson Sweeney Jr., a remarkable man of 93, left us on October 21, 2023, in his beloved Houston, Texas. He was a true Texan, born on September 18, 1930, at the Memorial Downtown Hospital in Houston, to parents Russell Patterson Sweeney and Linnie Pearl Cottle Sweeney.

Growing up in Houston’s Montrose neighborhood, Pat embarked on a journey that would paint his life with vivid experiences. He attended Lanier Elementary School and graduated from Lamar High School in 1949. Yet, his path took an unexpected turn in 1951 when he was called to serve during the Korean War while attending The University of Texas at Austin. With unwavering resolve, he joined the Air Force as an Airman First Class, where he contributed to construction administration and oversaw significant building additions at the Yakota Air Base in Japan. For his dedication and valor, Pat earned the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. His honorable discharge in 1954 marked the return to his educational pursuits, and Pat thrived. He graduated as valedictorian of his class with a Bachelor of Architecture from UT Austin in 1957. In his college years, he was an active member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and took the helm as President of the Tau Sigma Delta Honor Society.

In 1959, Pat married the love of his life, Maureen O’Donnell. Their love story took them to Boston, where he acquired his Master of Architecture from MIT in 1961. Pat and Maureen then returned to Bellaire, Texas, where they raised four children and shared a lifetime of love and partnership. Their connection was profound, enduring for 52 years, until Maureen's passing from breast cancer.

Pat's heart and soul were deeply intertwined with architecture. He worked tirelessly until the age of 88, retiring from MCS Architects, LLC in 2018, after an illustrious 62-year career as an architect that included many years with Neuhaus & Taylor (later 3D International/3DI). The Sweeney home was a hub of culinary delight and harmonious tunes, where Saturday evenings meant gourmet dinners prepared by Pat and Maureen while a symphony of music filled the air, from rock to blues to classical. They also shared a passion for exploring the world together, their adventures taking them to the picturesque landscapes of Italy and the soothing shores of Hawaii.

Pat's legacy lives on in his children, Erin Sweeney, John Sweeney, Todd Sweeney, and Carrie Schwartzenburg (Kirk), along with his cherished grandchildren, Luke Schwartzenburg and Natalie Schwartzenburg. He is also survived by his brothers, Mike Sweeney (Corrisue) and Jerry Sweeney (Ya), and sisters-in-law, Arlene Baranda, Rose Licce, and Betty Sprouse, as well as a multitude of beloved nieces and nephews. Reuniting in the great beyond, Pat now joins his beloved wife, Maureen. He is also preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, JJ O’Donnell and Lillie Kelly O’Donnell; sister, Jean Dula; sister-in-law Betty Jean O’Donnell; and brothers-in-law, George Baranda, Blase Licce, Richard Sprouse, Jack O’Donnell, Jim O’Donnell, and Norman Dula.

A ceremony celebrating the life of this extraordinary man will be held on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at 12 pm at Forest Park Lawndale followed by a reception. Visitation hours will take place from 10-11 am for family and 11 am-12 pm for the public. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association or to a charity of your choice. The Sweeney family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Vantage Hospice and MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care for the unwavering care and kindness they extended to Pat and the entire family, including the heartfelt support from caregivers, Doris, Jeanette, Rosie, Shana, and many more.