Neal E. Rooney, III – 70, of North Reading and formerly of Somerville, died unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, December 18, 2021.
He was born in Somerville, MA on January 8, 1951. He was the son of the late Neal E., II and June (Dunn) Rooney. He was raised and attended school in Somerville.
Neal was a U.S. Army Veteran of the Vietnam War, he was a Paratrooper and served from 1968 to 1969. He was a Corporal and received the Bronze Star Medal.
He was a mason for the MWRA for over thirty years and has been retired for the past 5 years. Neal was a resident of North Reading for the past 32 years, he was a former member of the Planning Commission and a member of St. Theresa’s Church.
Neal had a huge heart, he was a family man and made people laugh. He was hard working and very giving to others. He loved model cars, trains, houses, hunting and boating. Neal was a 100% disabled Vietnam Veteran.
Family members include his loving wife of 32 years, Catherine M. (Powers) Rooney; his son, Neal E. Rooney, IV; his brother, Thomas Rooney and sisters, Linda (Rooney) Belcher and Heidi Mattos.
His Funeral Mass will be held at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading on Friday, January 7 at 10:30 AM. Masks must be worn at all times inside of church. Visitation will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday, January 6 from 4 to 7 PM.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to the North Reading Veteran’s Gift Account, 235 North Street (Town Hall), North Reading, MA 01864. Attention, Susan Magner. (www.croswellfuneralhome.com)
Saddened top hear of Neal’s passing , he was a great friend , we worked on many great projects over the years and had plenty of laughs along the way, my memories of our friendship will brighten my days .
Rest easy my friend until we meet again
My deepest sympathy Cathy and Neal. So very sorry for your loss.
I worked with Neal for a number of years before he retired. He always had a smile on his face and I never heard a harsh or unkind word from him. I will always remember him fondly.