Mary K. Cooney was born in 1927. She was raised in Akron, Ohio, daughter of Harry and Grace Heskett. She is survived by her wonderful husband, Tom, and 3 beautiful daughters Colleen (Tom) Hatton, Peggy (Steve) Eickelman, and Tammy (Bob) Guthmiller as well as 6 remarkable grandchildren Brittany Norris (Reggie), Lindsay Guthmiller, Ryan Hatton, Connor Hatton, Kelsey Eickelman, and Jack Eickelman and 4 great granddaughters Hayden Guthmiller, and Mary Grace, Heidi and Madison Norris.
Mary graduated from Buchtel High School, where she was voted “Most Likely to Succeed”. She graduated from Bowling Green State University in Ohio with honors and a degree in Education. While at Bowling Green, Mary met the love of her life, Thomas Cooney. Tom and Mary were married in 1950 and they spent most of their lives in Pueblo, CO as A & W Root Beer and KFC franchisees.
Mary and Tom were life and business partners for 74 years. Mary was the CFO of the family franchise business. She was responsible for all finances, investments, accounting and payroll. She worked and encouraged Tom every step of the way while raising their 3 daughters. Mary and Tom moved to Highlands Ranch in 2008.
When Tom and Mary first moved to Pueblo, she taught 1st and 2nd grade at Bessemer school for 3 years. She was a member of 1st Presbyterian Church serving on various church boards, Delta Gamma Sorority, Assistance League and P.E.O.
Mary loved being with her family most of all. She discovered her artistic talent for painting later in life and was a savvy bridge player. She also enjoyed walking the beach in Maui, Hawaii watching sunsets and rainbows and eating Hula Pie.
A private celebration of Mary’s life will be held with her immediate family. Donations can be made to the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Association or Make-A-Wish Foundation.
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