Irvine R. Rooney

Sebastian, FL – Irvine Robinson Rooney, known as “Robin” and “Irv”,  passed away peacefully on March 20, 2024.  He was 69 years old.

Born in Detroit, MI on June 24, 1954 to parents Irvine Rooney and Eva (Gill) Kozub,  he grew up in Westland where he and former spouse, Julyn (Penrod) Roberts had two daughters.  Irv later moved to Florida, where he settled, and married Joan (Barkwell) Rooney  with whom he had one son.   Irv is survived by his daughter Lisa (Mondray Gee) Rooney, and his son, Gregory (Morgan Lachman) Rooney; his grandsons Steven McCoy, Nicholas McCoy, and MJ Gee; his great-granddaughter Kylie McCoy; his brothers Greg (Barb) Kozub and Juan (Karen) Maldonado; and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, family members and friends.  He is preceded by his daughter Jacqueline Rooney; granddaughter Carley Chapman; sister Cheryl Gorski; his parents, and his stepfather, Richard Kozub.

Irv was a man of many passions.  He was a bluesman – music fueled his soul.  From Motown to jazz, to rock and roll, he had a deep knowledge, love and appreciation of music.  He influenced many of us with his musical tastes and entertained many a crowd on the harp.

A die-hard supporter of Detroit sports teams,  Irv’s enthusiasm for sports was infectious.  He was a talented ball player and loved both the competitiveness and camaraderie of the game.  He displayed unwavering loyalty and dedication to the Wolverines (Go Blue!).  And though they have yet to make the Superbowl, he was ecstatic that the Lions finally made it to the playoffs this year, and that Michigan won the National Championship.  One has to wonder if he, like Harbough, wanted to go out on a high note, before baseball season began and ruined this streak for him.

He had quite the sense of humor, and knew how to land a punchline.  It felt amazing to make him laugh.  He was also a great story teller (like his mom), and even if you’d heard that one before, you were happy to hear it again.

He had an amazing smile, a soft spot for babies and children, and a fondness for the open road astride his beloved Harley.  He had a big heart, a keen sense of justice and tended to root  for the underdog.  He hated bullies.  He was not looking forward to the upcoming election season.

Irv was known for his generous spirit and vast knowledge. He was always willing to lend a  helping hand or share his wisdom with those around him, whether it be helping to fix your AC, advising you on what part to buy for your car,  or informing you of what year that song came out and who played bass on that particular version, he was the person to call.  He was also an attentive listener and could stay quiet if what you needed was just to be heard.

Son, brother, father and grandfather, uncle, partner, friend, teammate, and band member… he is largely defined by his relationships to others and the love and care he showed for his people. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Though he is gone, his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him and the stories we will continue to tell.

Some wisdom from his favorite, Stevie Ray Vaughn: What I am trying to get across to you; is please take of yourselves and those that you love; because that is what we are here for, that’s all we got, and that is all we can take with us. Are you with me?

We miss you already.  May you rest in peace, Irv.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.