The Downey Patriot

View Original

Patrick (Pat) Rooney

A longtime resident of Downey, Patrick (Pat) Rooney, has walked into the gates of heaven with a smile on his face and mischief in his step. Pat was known by many people for his ability to show up at the best (and worst) of times, but always with good intentions and an epic story. Pat was a devout Catholic and attended church at both St. Raymond’s and Our Lady of Perpetual Help. He was a long-standing member of the Knights of Columbus and an honorary member of the Downey Bocce Ball club who loved to play cards, pool, and to throw the winning point. Regardless of what he played, “Rooney” luck would eventually frustrate the best of players that opposed him. In true Irish fashion, Pat could be seen rolling around Downey making friends and offering a helping hand or donating his time to a worthy cause. As his children grew and he began to age, he could often be seen “cutting a rug” at the Barbara J. Riley Senior Center and catching up with new and old friends. Pat is survived by his wife Arminda (Minnie), his 3 children AndaJo (husband John), Marlo (husband Steve) and Edlen (wife Maricella), and 10 grandchildren. Services will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Downey. Rosary, Jan. 24 at 9:30am and funeral mass, Jan. 24 at 10am. Celebration of Life to follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Downey. In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Red Cross, Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org) or simply spread some joy with a small act of kindness in his name. There is no better way to celebrate a wonderful life than by making this world a better place!