James Alan Rooney

James Alan Rooney, 68, left this world peacefully on June 23, 2023, from JourneyCare Hospice in Barrington, Illinois, after several months of battling major health issues.  Carrie, his wife of nearly 21 years, was by his side.

Known to family and friends as Jim or “JR”, he was born on October 1, 1954, to the late John Rooney and Joan Hayden (Rooney) Carroll in Clarkson, New York.  Jim graduated from Charlotte High School in Port Charlotte, Florida in 1972.  He was an Owner/Operator for his companies, Rooney Transport, and later Rooney Relocation, providing contract household moving services across the country for both North American and Atlas Van Lines for many years.

On August 31, 2002, he married his best friend and the love of his life, Carrie Williams, at his sister Donna’s home in Winter Springs, Florida.  Jim and Carrie resided in Palatine, Illinois until they purchased their home in Fox River Grove, Illinois in 2004.  Together they enjoyed many wonderful trips and adventures to Belize, Antigua, Italy, Mexico, and Costa Rica, as well as many camping and fishing trips in the US over the years.

Jim was an avid pool player (especially 9-Ball), golfer, and fan of the Buffalo Bills.  He enjoyed spending time with friends and family, loved classic country music and being a great “dad” to their rescue “fur-kids” Dixie, Madison, and Joe.  A caring and genuine friend, Jim would always lend a hand when asked.  Remembering his beautiful smile, blue eyes, wit, and sense of humor will bring fond memories of many laughs, escapades, and times spent together over the years to all that knew him.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, his brother John (Pam) Rooney, and his sister Donna (Jason) Gaschel.  In addition to his wife Carrie, he is survived by his brother Matt (April) Rooney of Bradenton, Florida, sister Lorilee Rooney (Thomas Gabriels) of Albany, New York, and his beloved nieces, nephews, and their children.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 7, 2023, from noon until 3 p.m. at the Norge Ski Club Lodge, 100 Ski Hill Road in Fox River Grove.  Food and beverages will be served as we gather to raise a toast and share many a treasured story of a memorable life gone far too soon.

If you care to make a donation in Jim’s honor, memorials can be made to Illinois Birddog Rescue (a registered 501 (c) (3) charity), via mail at P.O. Box 364, Wood Dale, IL  60191 or online at www.IllinoisBirddogRescue.org.