Obituary of David T. Cooney

David Thomas Cooney, Ph.D., passed away on Monday, March 31, 2014 at the age of 79. Born in New Britain, CT, on December 30, 1934 to John and Rhea Beloin Cooney, Dr. Cooney lived in Winter Haven for 47 years. Dr. Cooney is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Susan; daughters, Kathleen Cooney, Eileen (Patrick) Cooney Quinlan, Noreen (Edgar) Cooney Starkey, son, Timothy (Tammie) Cooney, and stepdaughter Wendy Paulson; grandchildren, Christina, Meghann, Michael, Caitlin, Sarah, Courtney, Joseph, Shelby and Hannah; great-grandchildren, Ariana, Isaiah, Elijah, Linnea, and Carlos; sister, Therese Cooney Kelly; and several nieces and nephews. Dr. Cooney was a life-long educator whose great work lies in the impact he had on the thousands of students he taught over the years as a professor of multiple foreign languages, mathematics, research methods, and many other courses at Polk State College, University of South Florida, Florida Southern College, Warner University, Webber University, National Louis University, Johnstown College and Doldgeville High School in New York. He attended Catholic elementary and high schools in Syracuse, NY, Le Moyne College earning a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, and finished one year of Mary Immaculate Seminary. Additionally, he received a Master of Arts in Russian Studies from Colgate University, and attended the Monterey Institute of International Studies in Russian language through the United States Army. Then he earned his Doctorate in Philosophy at Florida State University in Postsecondary Educational Studies, and finally, another Master of Arts in mathematics at the University or South Florida. His spirit was driven by a monumental work ethic, providing for his family, and the thrill of the next hole in one on the golf course. He was devoted to his Catholic faith and was a longtime member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, active in the Eucharistic Ministry, Ministry to the Sick, served as a lector and was a member of Knights of Columbus. Also, 12 years ago, he co-founded with his wife, Sisters and Brothers in Christ, a non-denominational faith based ministry assisting many people throughout their journey with cancer. He will lovingly be remembered for the many hours of service he contributed to the ongoing success of this organization. He was cherished by his family and friends, coworkers and students, and, ultimately, by those who cared for him in his final years. His welcoming spirit, his zest for life, and his passion for his faith, will continue on through his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and all those he touched throughout his lifetime. The funeral mass will be Saturday, April 12, 2014, 10:00 AM, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Winter Haven. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Sisters and Brothers in Christ, 412 Sandestin Drive, Winter Haven, 33884, Attention: Carolyn Davis.