Christopher S. Rooney

November 17, 1946 – September 17, 2024    

Christopher “Chris” Rooney, beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away peacefully Tuesday night surrounded by the family he cherished. A longtime Staten Island resident and jovial Irishman, Chris married his college sweetheart Janet Rooney (nee Manco) in 1969. Together they built a life together while savoring her delicious Italian-family recipes. He was 77 years old.

Originally from White Plains, NY, Chris was the second of seven children born to Col. William Rooney and wife Gaynelle. A helpful brother to his younger siblings, Chris was a bright student and nimble athlete who played varsity baseball and basketball at Archbishop Stepinac High School before studying at Fordham University and deploying to Vietnam while serving as a U.S. Army Captain from 1969 to 1972.

After returning home from overseas, Chris pursued his dreams by earning a JD Degree from Fordham University School of Law in 1975. Afterwards, he joined the law offices of Jackson & Nash before becoming a partner in his own firm, Casey, Mahon & Rooney in Manhattan. Throughout his legal career, Chris was known for his integrity, dedication, and commitment to justice. He also never hesitated to help a family member or friend in need of legal counsel.

But Chris’ greatest source of lifelong pride were his four children — Meghan Rooney, Ayleen Rooney Breslin, Liza Rooney Lan, and Timothy Rooney — only to be eclipsed by the joy of his five grandchildren Jay, Zach, Maddi, Luke, and Paddy. After coaching many of his children’s soccer teams, he went on to be a regular presence at his grandchildren’s matches, dance recitals, and swim meets. In retirement, Chris’ beaming smile showed how much he cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren; their giggles communicated how much they adored him. He also loved to dance “The Twist” on occasion.

On top of other accomplishments, Chris devoted himself to his community as a volunteer and civic leader. He served on Community Board 1, Staten Island for over 25 years and stepped up as the President of Special Olympics Soccer from 2002 to 2018. His contributions to sports and youth programs were recognized by his induction into the Staten Island Soccer Hall of Fame in 2013.

A devoted Catholic, Christopher was a member of the Holy Name Society at Blessed Sacrament Church and a proud member of the Vietnam Veterans Association. His commitment to service left a lasting impact.

Chris is survived by Janet, his loving wife of 55 years; four children and their spouses James Breslin, and Peter Lan and significant other, Casey Avsec; five grandchildren; and six siblings Bill Rooney, John Rooney, Kathryn Rooney, Martha Lindine, Lola Rooney and Patty Super. In addition, Chris was a loving uncle, cousin, and friend to countless others — all of whom will sorely miss his infectious chuckle.

A viewing will be held at Harmon Funeral Home on September 22 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. A funeral mass will be held at 10 am on September 23 at Blessed Sacrament Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Special Olympics, an organization that Chris passionately supported.