He was a resident of St James, NC, where was often seen driving his red Mustang convertible. Garry was born October 17, 1948 in Dayton, Ohio to Joe and Betty Rooney. He joined the United States Navy in 1968 and served 4 years, notably gaining acceptance into the Nuclear Power School and serving on board the USS Richard W. Byrd Destroyer achieving the rank of Machinist Mate Petty Officer 3rd class and was awarded a National Defense Service Medal. Following Garry’s service he enrolled in the The Ohio State University and graduated in 1976 with dual degrees in Marketing and Logistics. Garry remained a proud Buckeye and avid fan for the remainder of his life, which was reflected in his wardrobe. After his graduation from OSU, Garry accepted a sales position with Union 76 Oil Company. He led all sales people in his initial year and achieved tremendous success throughout his 25 year career with the company, rising to the position of President of the Lubricants Division. While working for 76 he earned a Master’s Degree in Business Management from DePaul University. He ran multiple businesses of his own, and also worked for Warren Oil and Campbell Oil Co.
Garry enjoyed traveling with his wife, spending time with his children and grandchildren, boating on the Intracoastal with good friends, time at the beach and Ohio State football. He also enjoyed a cold beer while listening to Queen. As a young father he coached his children's youth sports teams.
Garry is survived by his wife Tina (Magoon), his daughter Kelly (David) Jordan, his two sons Brian (Stephanie) and Michael (Kristin Morgan) and his grandchildren Noah, Liam and Ryder Jordan and Maia and Jack Rooney. Garry is also survived by the mother of his children, Tracy Rooney, his sister Brenda Havens, and his “sweet little girl” Cookie.
Garry was a loving husband, a loving father and will forever be known in our hearts as the world’s greatest and most proud “Papa” as he was known to his grandchildren. He will be missed and forever in our hearts.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com.
Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.5