Gary Rooney

Gary Rooney, 68, of Cherokee Village, was born December 6, 1946, in Osceola, Iowa. He passed away in his sleep at his home Thursday, July 23, 2015. Gary is survived by his daughter, Andrea Roll (Tom Malewicki); his beloved granddaughters, Harper and Emmersyn Roll; daughter, KC (Daimon) Heller; mother, Mildred Rooney; brothers, Clifton (Sharon) Rooney and Marvin (Marty) Rooney; several nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends. Gary was preceded in death by his father, Arthur Rooney. Gary graduated from Lincoln High School (Des Moines, Iowa), Drake University, and Simpson College (Indianola, Iowa). He retired to Cherokee Village after a fulfulling career in educational administration. His last position was at the Cooperative Education Service Agency in Fenimore, Wisconsin, where he was the administrator. He made the most of his retirement enjoying hunting, fishing, woodworking, the company of his friends and neighbors as well as the Spring River Seniors softball team. Gary also enjoyed bird watching and fed a variety of wild birds from his back deck. He was an active Omaha Health Club member. Gary, a six-year cancer survivor, lived life on his own terms. He was a loving father and grandfather and will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the World Bird Sanctuary, c/o Gary Rooney Memorial Fund, 125 Bald Eagle Ridge Road, Valley Park, MO 63088. No services are planned at this time. Arrangements are with Tri-County Funeral Home of Highland.