Loren Phillip Sweeten Jr.

Loren Phillip Sweeten, Jr.

Loren Phillip Sweeten, Jr., passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026, in Perry, Iowa, at the age of 77.

Loren was born on October 15, 1948, to Loren Phillip Sweeten, Sr. and Charlene Sweeten. He attended Grand View College, earned his master’s degree from Drake University, and began coursework toward his doctorate. He also spent time working as a substitute teacher.

Music was one of Loren’s greatest passions. He especially loved attending live jazz concerts and was involved in a number of community music organizations. He enjoyed a wide variety of music and built an extensive collection featuring artists such as Count Basie, Louis Armstrong, B.B. King, Al Jolson, and Bing Crosby. He also had an appreciation for opera and other forms of music throughout his life.

Loren had a love for the theater and performed in numerous productions at the Des Moines Playhouse. One of his favorite experiences was starring in Sherlock Holmes, a production he thoroughly enjoyed. Away from the theater, he loved reading mystery novels and watching Sherlock Holmes, The Twilight Zone, and classic films. The staff at his nursing home often smiled as they walked past his room and heard him laughing while watching his favorite shows.

He treasured his beloved cat, Booboo, who accompanied him on many adventures. Loren also enjoyed collecting hats and dressing well, choosing just the right hat to complete his outfit.

Known for his kind and welcoming spirit, Loren never met a stranger. He loved meeting new people, making friends wherever he went, and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

His parents called him “Larry” as a child, a name also used by friends and acquaintances throughout his life. When his little sister, Lana, was five years old, Loren told her he was her “buddy.” From that point on, Lana referred to him simply as Buddy. Her husband, Mike Gorman, also called him Buddy, and to Lana and Mike’s four children—Jason, Josh, Larisa, and Josalyn—he was always “Uncle Bud.”

Loren was a devoted older brother who always looked after and protected his sister, creating memories she would cherish for a lifetime. He faithfully attended the school events of his nieces and nephews and loved spending time with family at birthday celebrations, dinners out, movies, and Jazz in July.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Loren Phillip Sweeten, Sr. and Charlene Sweeten.

He is survived by his sister, Lana (Mike) Gorman; his nieces and nephews, Jason (Heather), Josh (Alex), Larisa (Jeremy), and Josalyn; and many extended family members, cousins, and dear friends.

Services will be announced at a later date. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Loren will be remembered as a loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend whose kindness, generosity, love of music, and joyful spirit touched the lives of many.

From Loren’s Family