"Dear Brother. At rest at last. Happy wishes and love forever. "
In loving memory of
Michael Arthur Rooney
April 27, 1944 - July 19, 2024
Michael was the beloved son of Donald Vincent and Phyllis Marie (Ivie) Rooney, both deceased.
Michael was also beloved brother of sister Jeanette and spouse Daniel Marquez, sister Patricia and spouse Mark Ramirez, brother Gerald Rooney (deceased) and sister-in-law Amiee and uncle to 45+ nieces and nephews.
He was blessed with two amazing children: Brandon Lane Johnson, his spouse Shannon, and daughter Tina Marie Johnson Parker, her spouse Jeff. All of North Carolina...and many grandchildren.
Michael shared his life with Juana Cardenas, his beloved life partner for almost 30 years. Together they made a home in Los Banos surrounded by a plethora of pets and where Juana eventually became his caregiver providing for his needs up to his last day. Juana was a great gift and comfort for Michael as was her grandson, Abel.
Michael grew up in Sunnyvale, California - Attended Fremont High School 1959-63. He excelled at body building at a young age which, no doubt, benefited him when he signed up for the US Marine Corp where he served from1963-1966/7. He went from Camp Pendelton to Viet Nam and came back home by the Grace of God. In that short time span he also became a husband and father to two. After military service he took a job while also attending college classes and being a family man.
Michael learned to cook while in the Marines after sustaining an injury in the field. It became more than a hobby. He loved to cook. He eventually received professional chef training in France. His kitchen was his domain at work and at home. He also had computer skills to the point where he could rebuild his own equipment. As a lover of the outdoors, he would hit the road on his motorcycle, camped often, loved hiking and fresh and ocean fishing/diving. Interestingly, he also was a talented artist but often shied away from sharing that skill.
Especially now that he is free of physical pain, it is comforting to think of him exploring new things.
Plans are in place for his military burial at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery.
Date to be determined.
He is missed. He is loved. Michael, your light will never grow dim.
You will be remembered by all whose hearts you touched.
Tributes
"Our big brother is missed. I and our younger brother, Jerry and sister, Patty called him Mickey. He was my first confidant, childhood co-instigator and adventurer, board game master and a big brother protector. He always pushed himself physically in sports. Our parents loved camping. So did we all. It was our summer escape to nature...often. Mickey joined the USMC out of high school and served honorably in Vietnam. 1965 Mickey returned home to his one and two year old babies, he pushed himself to work and attended classes to create a home for his family. Fast forward to today, Mickey has now has grand and great grandchildren. His blessings are many. I miss you Mickey. . I love you. Jenny "
"Dear big brother I miss you. You were my protector when we were young. My best friend until Patty and Jerry were born and our gang expanded. Fun family memories and kid secrets shared. I'll come looking for you again one day. I hope there are trees in Heaven to climb and pick fruit as we once did. Love you. Jenny "