Robert “Bob” Cooney

Robert “Bob” Cooney, age 86, of Wickes, Arkansas, died Monday, December 11, 2023, at his home. He was born on Monday, February 22, 1937, to Robert Arthur and Theresa Marguerite La Motte Cooney.

Bob Cooney, a man of unwavering faith, leaves behind a legacy of courage, determination, and a life rich in accomplishment and service. He was a devoted member of the St. Agnes Catholic Church in Mena, where his faith flourished, and his compassionate spirit found expression in service to others through the Knights of Columbus and becoming a Sir Knight Fourth Degree just like his father.

Bob was a trailblazer in every aspect of life, always the first to embark on new ventures. His goal-oriented and compassionate nature propelled him to make a positive impact in the world around him. Serving in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958, Bob answered the call to duty during a pivotal moment in history—being deployed to Little Rock during the school integration of Central High School. His commitment to duty and principles showcased his bravery and dedication.

Family was at the core of Bob’s heart, and he loved his family deeply. He loved to traverse across his homestead towing the grandchildren and great-grandchildren with his tractor. Most of the grands learned to drive later on that same tractor. His passion for travel, gardening, and flying airplanes were expressions of his adventurous spirit and his appreciation for the beauty of the world. As a HAM Radio operator with the handle K1TU, Bob connected with others across the airwaves, fostering communication and camaraderie with fellow enthusiasts.

Bob’s professional journey was marked by excellence in the field of computer sciences. Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree from the University of Houston, he contributed his skills and knowledge to notable companies such as RCA, United Technologies, Hughes Aircraft, Exxon, Ford Aerospace/Loral, Cisco, and then promoted himself to boss by creating his own company TPSS. His work in this dynamic field showcased his intellectual prowess and commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and led to adventures on an international scale.

As we bid farewell to Bob, we celebrate a life filled with achievement, service, and love. His legacy of courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication to family and community will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. Though he may no longer physically be with us, the memories of his remarkable life will forever be etched in the hearts of those who shared in his journey. Bob Cooney will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were touched by his extraordinary presence.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Catherine Sherman Cooney, and one son, Michael Kintas.

Bob is survived by wife of 36 years, Dorothy Cooney of Wickes; one daughter and son-in-law, Pamella and Charles Pitman of Houston, Texas; two brothers, Mel Cooney of Wolcott, Connecticut and Bernie Cooney of Tewksbury, Massachusetts; two sisters, Marilyn Smith of Brooklyn, Michigan and Elaine LaTulip of Billerica, Massachusetts; five grandchildren, Carrie and Tyler McCord, Sean and Krysten Pitman, Christopher Pitman, Thomas Pitman and Grace Pitman; five great-grandchildren, Stella Pitman, Catherine Pitman, Mae Pitman, Hayden Pitman, Korah McCord and one coming in August 2024; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, December 18, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Mena, Arkansas with Father Joseph Shantiraj as celebrant. Interment will follow at the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Mena. A visitation will be held on Sunday, December 17, 2023, from 2:00 – 3:00 P.M. and a Vigil/Rosary from 3:00 -4:00 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas.

Pallbearers will be Sean Pitman, Christopher Pitman, Tyler McCord, Thomas Pitman, Kendall Wilson, and Paul Tadlock. Honorary Pallbearers will be Brian Cooney and Robert White.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com

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Ethan Nahté

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