John E. Rooney
February 05, 1929 - December 07, 2007
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John E. Rooney
February 05, 1929 - December 07, 2007
Obituary
ROONEY – John Edward Rooney 1929-2007 Died December 7, 2007 in Laguna Hills. Born in Chicago, he was the only child of John Rooney and Suzanna Heraty Rooney. Marriage in 1948 to Helen Grady was followed by a happy family life in many locations: Cheyenne, Chicago, Cedar Rapids, Dallas, Washington DC and Laguna Hills, while John served, first, in the US Air Force and then, enjoyed a 37-year career in the defense industry. Upon retirement, John put his business skills to use in a second career as a volunteer where he worked to help alleviate poverty and homelessness. John was happily married for 57 years until Helen’s death in 2006. John was a gentleman, a kind and friendly man, with the highest integrity, enjoyed watching baseball and football and was an enthusiastic fan of parades and marching bands. He enjoyed reading, especially history and encouraged a love of books in others. He was a wonderful role model for his family and community. He will be dearly missed. He was a loving dad to his children, John Jr. Flora, Patricia Bob Pike, Michael deceased 1980, Mary Ann Neilson, and Kathleen Gordon Hamilton. John was a doting grandpa to his grandchildren, Melissa, Dorian and Jackie Rooney, Daniel Neilson, Megan, Noreen and Brian Hamilton.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to the establishment of a memorial scholarship fund may be made to St. Nicholas Church.
23 responses to John E. Rooney
Abby Duval says:
December 11, 2007
I am so sorry for you loss! John was a wonderful man. I know he is in a better place now that he is back with his wife:
My condolences to all of you, take care, Abby
Brian Kelly says:
December 11, 2007
My first attempt disappeared into cyberspace, so I’m hoping this feeble attempt to re-create my original comments will succeed.
As most of those who know me, I am seldom at a loss for words, but this is one of those unique moments.
I was first introduced to John by his son, John Jr. Roons as I know him in between my Junior and Senior year at the University of North Texas.
My first impression and one which I still retain, is how John loved to listen – especially to his children and their friends. He always seemed amused by our “know it all attitudes”, yet never looked down his nose at any of us. He, just like Helen, loved being around people of all ages.
I think the most honest thing I can say about knowing John was, I saw Jesus in him. A wise and gentle man who loved people.
Not that he didn’t, but I cannot recall him ever raising his voice -although between me, Brendan and my sisters, we probably gave him cause more than once to do so.
He was generous to a fault and he loved deeply.
To his children and grandchildren: If you emulate your DAD and GRANDFATHER you will have done well. You have an incredible legacy – LOVE and LAUGH like he did and your life and those lives around you will be BLESSED, just as he blessed so many.
To Roons, Patti, MaryAnn, and Kathy: Thank you for allowing me to share one of the most incredible people I’ve ever known. I know each of us have lost someone special, but the greatest way we can honor him is to endeavor to love and serve like him.
I sense there was a great tumult in heaven when he arrived and was reunited with Helen, Grandma Rooney, and Mike, and I hope he’s had a chance to see Pat, Kevin, and Regina, as well. What an Irish shindig that must have been!!!
All of my prayers and love are directed to each of you at this time and may you be comforted with the peace only THE HOLY SPIRIT can supply!
Your “other” brother,
Brian Suzanne and Matthew, too.
Daniel Neilson says:
December 11, 2007
Dear Grandpa,
I miss you already but know you are with Grandma now and very happy. Remember our water games and trips to the Natural History Museums? You are my angel now, Granpa. I love you very much.
Your Grandson, Daniel
Phil Moore says:
December 11, 2007
My first contact with John was in 1975 interviewing for a position working for him at Rockwell/ Collins. What a first impression. He was extremely smart,articulate and obviously a dedicated family man. The family part was easy to determine, since the interview took place in his home. Fortunately for me, I made a good enough impression on John and Helen to get the job.
John continued to help me grow as a member of his staff and more importantly, as a better person. He continued to be my mentor even after I left his organization for a higher position, which he located for me.
I have lost a very dear friend. He had more positive influence on my life than any other male. A part of John will always be with me.
Rick Nafis says:
December 11, 2007
My family’s thoughts and prayers go out to Mary Ann and her family. Her dad was a fine man and he’ll be missed dearly.