Obituary of Dennis Francis Cooney

On Sunday, February 12th, Dennis Francis Cooney (Denny), a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, father-in-law, brother, son, uncle and friend to all was called home to heaven. He was ninety years old and was born to Madeline and Joseph Cooney. Denny graduated from Flushing High School. Denny supported his family of eight, working for the telephone company in order to give his children and wife the best life possible. Denny met his soulmate and the love of his life, Anne when they were teenagers. They were together for seventy-six beautiful years. 

Denny had many titles in life but his favorite ones were Denny, Daddy and Poppy/Grandpa. He was a father of eight, a grandfather of seventeen and most recently a great grandfather of one. He was also an uncle to fifty nieces and nephews, a brother to six siblings and a friend to all.

Denny loved his country, serving in the United State Navy and was a proud American. He received the National Defense Service Medal and the Navy Occupation Service Medal. His faith is one that guided him throughout his life. St. Patrick’s Church was an instrumental part of his journey and he volunteered as a CYO Basketball coach for many years.  He was also involved in many parish activities and coached football for the City of Glen Cove. In his later years, after retirement, he was a basketball coach for the SUNY Maritime Girls Basketball team and was always the best mentor and teacher. One of Denny’s favorite pastimes was watching sports with various members of his family. He was also a true lover of animals and nature and spent endless hours in his garden. 

Denny imprinted his family roots in the beaches of Montauk.  Whether it was building a sand castle with his kids or fishing at the pier, he always felt peace at the beach.  One of his other favorite pastimes was making Sunday morning breakfast which included eggs and pancakes for the countless family members who entered his home.  Home was whenever Denny was present.

The words that come to mind when describing Denny are kind, faithful, patient, humble, hardworking and strong. One of his most impressionable qualities was his quick Irish wit and his sparkling brown eyes. He lit up every room he entered and always made you feel as if you were the most important one there. 

Denny treasured music whether it was hearing one of his grandchildren playing the violin, piano or singing and loved listening to Irish music. He valued and treasured his Irish heritage and passed these traditions down to his children.  

Denny is deeply loved and will be forever missed.  

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Marist Brothers in Care of Brother David Cooney, 445 East 240th Street, Bronx NY 10470