Obituary: Terry Rooney, 89, Of Norwalk

Information via Collins Funeral Home

Terry Rooney passed away on Saturday February 19th after short illness. Terry was born in Norwalk on January 22, 1933, he attended St. Mary’s School and graduated from Norwalk High School. He enlisted in the Navy and served during the Korean War until the end of the conflict.

When he returned to the U.S., he served as a meter reader with the first taxing district and was employed there for over 50 years holding a variety of jobs. After retirement, Terry held the position of Director at the East Norwalk Library where he had worked part time for over 40 years. While there, he improved the library programs and later had the children’s section named for him.

Over the years, Terry served on multiple boards and committees including the Veterans Memorial Committee, South Norwalk Council #1253 Knights of Columbus (Fourth Degree Knight), East Norwalk Interfaith Committee, Bishops Fenwick Assembly #100, and the East Norwalk Improvement Association. He volunteered as an usher for St. Thomas, and for many years helped organize Norwalk’s Memorial Days parade and other events around Norwalk.

What Terry was most proud of however was playing the role of Santa Claus, the role he took over from his father-in-law George Buschbaum. Terry performed as Santa at tree lightings for the Third Taxing District, Norwalk City Hall, Marvin Beach Association, and others for over 20 years.

Terry was predeceased by his wife of 50 years Donna Buschbaum Rooney, Sister-in-law Lois Marasco, Siblings Anne Rooney Scanlon of Norwalk, Jack Rooney of Amenia, NY, and Captain Fred Rooney of Virginia.

Terrys surviving family includes daughter Lisa Anne Rooney of Norwalk, Brian Patrick Rooney of Norwalk, daughter-in-law Amy Fitzgerald Rooney, and his much beloved granddaughter Emily Diana Rooney. He also leaves behind loving family members including his nephew James Scanlon along with many other nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Friends may call on Friday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue Norwalk. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 203 East Avenue, Norwalk, followed by burial in St. John Cemetery, 223 Richards Avenue, Norwalk.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St Thomas the Apostle Church, St Vincent de Paul Society and All Saints Catholic School.