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
Ed Ewart, Executive Director, South County Outreach says:
December 13, 2007
John Rooney was a kind yet strong influence for good in this world. Those of us who treasured his leadership at South County Outreach know that he literally helped thousands of the hungry and the homeless with his tireless efforts. John wrote grants, “hired” volunteers, spoke to all kinds of community forums and gave leadership on the board and, for a time, as Executive Director. As a result people fed their children, found jobs, obtained housing, learned to budget and, when they had nothing, were given cloths and help to pay for utilities or prevent foreclosure. John you were a light of truth and love in this world. In a world that sometimes seems apathetic and at other times pretentious, you were neither timid, nor abrasive. Your handshake was both strong and at the same time welcoming. Your life was not just a life, it was a mission and your friendship is treasured by many. God bless you John, you were a blessing to us!
bill goddard says:
December 14, 2007
“How about that!” On a road trip with my family from Chicago to Cedar Rapids when I was young the 60’s, Uncle Jack was the driver and tour guide. I think he pointed out every thing he thought we would find fascinating and new and said “How about that!” One farm with cows was enough for my father but Uncle Jack continued to mention them every chance he got. I also had the opportunity to spend a month one summer when I was 6 or 7 with my grandma Nell in Cedar Rapids with the Rooneys. That trip ended with some memorable shenanigans one weekend with the Wieckerts and the infamous and lovable AUNTIE.
I will always remember Uncle Jack as a welcoming soul with a kind heart and a big warm smile.
God bless him and all the Rooneys. You are in the thoughts and prayers of the Goddard family.
Jim and Mary Locke says:
December 14, 2007
Dear Rooney family,
We are so saddened by the death of your father. He was a blessing to all who knew him, truly a gift that God shared with all of us. His life was an example for all of us: caring, loving, generous and kind. It was an honor to know him. I know now why I could only call him Mr. Rooney. It was a sign of respect to a great man.
Now the Lord has the chance to welcome him into his heavenly home. I’m sure your mother rejoiced to see him again.
Your father and mother live on in all of you. Think of them often. Laugh and cry together as you share your stories of them. See them in each other. Take comfort in your memories.
Our prayers are with all of you at this time. Please know how much we care and love you.
God bless you!
Mary Kelly Locke
Joyce Wood says:
December 14, 2007
MaryAnn,
My condolences go out to you and your family on the loss of your dad. While I only knew John for the last 8 years I often admired the passion he had for helping others. He made such an impact on the community and will be missed.
I really enjoyed his mental toughness and dry, dry wit. It reminded me so much of my own dad. Funny but I didn’t realize until now that he had lived in Cedar Rapids. I grew up very close to Cedar Rapids and have relatives there. I must have felt a connection with that Midwest spirt.
Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Michael S. Kelly says:
December 14, 2007
To The Rooney Family:
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your father. John was a special man who demonstrated enormous concern for others. Hold tight to your memories of him. Remember him for those special things he taught you and for those special times he shared with you. May God hold John close and bless all of you.