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James L. Cooney, Jr.
James L. Cooney Junior passed away on February 20, 2022. Until Alzheimer’s Disease took him, he led a life full of family, friendships, and fun. Last week, Jim and his wife Susan (Marion) celebrated 53 years of marriage during which they raised four daughters, Carolyn Bartholdson, Beth Lasher, Megan Worley and Maura Graham. Jim hit the jackpot when he met Susan and his longevity after his diagnosis was thanks to her care and devotion.
Born in Lowell, Massachusetts on April 7, 1945, Jim was a proud – and distinguished alumnus – of the Immaculate Conception School and Keith Academy. He remained in Lowell for the majority of his life and Lowell is where he grew the business his father began there in 1946. Jim led the James L. Cooney Insurance and Real Estate Agency as President until 2015.
Jim was the oldest child and only son of James L. Cooney Senior and Bernice (Devine) Cooney. He was known for keeping them on their toes. While his mischievousness defined his youth, his loyalty and commitment were hallmarks of his adulthood. He would have done anything for his three sisters and their families, the late Mary Pietryka and her husband John, Anne O’Brien and her late husband Pat and Katie Barry and her husband Brian. Once he married Susan, he felt the same for his sister-in-law Judi Harness and her late husband Bill and their family.
In addition to his wife and daughters, Jim leaves behind seven grandchildren whom he adored: Anders Bartholdson, Michael Bartholdson, Luke Worley, Gemma Worley, James Graham, Evie Bartholdson and Georgia Graham. They all inherited Jim’s character, sense of humor and love of ice cream. Jim warmly embraced his sons-in-law, welcome additions to his female-centered world and he loved his nieces and nephews like they were his own children.
Jim was known for rallying. He would always be up for a good time and was always game to try anything once. His family and friends have lists of vacations and experiences they would never have had if Jim hadn’t made them happen. His home had an open door and he never shied away from a houseguest.
Jim learned to ski from his wife and became a lifelong fan of the sport. He passed on his love for the slopes to all of his children and grandchildren. They all have many happy memories skiing together in Quechee, Vermont. In addition, he looked forward to an annual Colorado ski trip with his friends which doubled as a great excuse to visit his daughter, Beth.
Jim had a generous spirit and was wired to help folks who needed a lift. He was the person to call if you need a few bucks, a place to stay, or a job. The Cooney Agencies launched many careers.
There was no one prouder of being from Lowell than Jim. He was an active member of his community and held many leadership positions in civic organizations, clubs, and schools.
Jim’s family wants to thank the staff at the Arbors in Dracut and Sunny Acres in Chelmsford who provided Jim with love, support, and care during the last years of his life.
A lifelong parishioner and supporter of the Immaculate Conception Church in Lowell, Jim forged many friendships with the pastors through the years. Beginning with his days as an altar boy, Jim loved the Immaculate and it is fitting that his wake and funeral will be held there on Saturday, February 26.
Relatives and friends are invited to his Memorial Visitation to be held Saturday morning at the IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CHURCH 144 EAST MERRIMACK ST. in LOWELL from 9 to 10:45 A.M. followed by his Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 11 o’clock. The family has requested that all attendees please bring and wear a mask upon entrance into the church for the calling hours and Mass. His burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery in No. Tewksbury. Arrangements by O'DONNELL FUNERAL HOME-LOWELL (978) 458-8768.
E-condolences/directions at www.odonnellfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to either the Immaculate Conception Church Restoration Fund, 3 Fayette Street, Lowell, MA 01852 or the family’s team for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Northeastern Massachusetts through the following link: http://act.alz.org/goto/jimcooney.
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