James E Cooney Sr.

James E Cooney, Sr., aka ‘Da, Jim or Chief’, a proud United States Navy veteran, and a long-time resident of North Chicago IL, passed away July 11, 2024 at the Southern Nevada Veteran’s Home in Boulder City, Nevada.

Jim was the son of William and Henrietta (Boenig) Cooney, born in Jersey City, NJ.

Growing up in Jersey City youngest of five kids, he joined the United States Navy in 1958 attaining the rank of Chief Petty Officer, retiring with 20 years of service to his country. While on shore duty he met the love of his life, Martha McDonald and they were married May 5, 1961 in Chelsea, MA. In this union, three children were born, Debbie, Jim Jr. and Cheryl.

Jim was an avid Cubs fan, enjoyed spending time in the north woods with family, cheering on his grandchildren (hoota hoota), sharing navy stories, projects around the house, exercising, a cold beer, liverwurst sandwiches and a Dunkin Donuts XL coffee.

 He is survived by his wife Martha of 63 years, and children Debbie Lavris (Tommy), Jim Cooney Jr. (Laura) and Cheryl Gross (Gene). Proud grandfather to Michael (Arin), Malorie, Katie, Audra (Tony), Samantha, Grant, Sarah (Sean), Alix (Jordan) and Eugene. Along with a host of great grandchildren. 

May you rest in peace, always missed, forever remembered – SALUTE!

Services will be held on Thursday, August 8 at 10:00 am at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery. 

 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim’s name to the Southern Nevada Veteran’s Home, Boulder City, NV https://veterans.nv.gov/product/southern-nevada-state-veterans-home-donation/

Southern Nevada State Veterans Home (SNSVH) - Donation - Nevada Department of Veterans Services (nv.gov)