Ray Cooney

Raymond E. Cooney, age 91, of New Prague, formerly of Le Center passed away Friday, May 5, 2023, with his wife at his side at Central Health Care in Le Center. Ray was born on October 17, 1931 in Kilkenny Township to Charles and Mary (Warnemunde) Cooney. He attended Country school and St. Mary’s Catholic School in Le Center. He met his favorite dancing partner, Janet Dedina, at a dance at the Park Ballroom and after that he had eyes for no other. Ray and Jan were married on September 20, 1958 at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Montgomery and they enjoyed dancing for 30 years! They made their home in New Prague starting in 1960 and Ray worked on highway construction and did truck driving.

Ray was never seen without a smile on his face and a twinkle in his Irish eyes. A natural conversationalist, he always had a kind word and a compliment to pass on and very often also a good story! He enjoyed hunting, ballroom dancing, and casinos. Ray’s glass was always half-full and his devotion to Jan evident. His infectious optimism will be missed by his friends and family.

Ray is survived by his wife of 64 years, Janet; sister-in-law, Margie Cooney of St. Peter; nieces & nephews, great & great-great nieces & nephews; cousins & friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Urban, Emmett, John, Robert, & Patrick, Sr.; Sisters, Ann Marie & Theresa.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, May 10, 2023 at 11:00 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Eugene Theisen officiating. Visitation will take place at church 1 hour prior to Mass starting at 10 AM. Lunch will follow Mass at the KC Hall. Burial will occur that afternoon at Calvary Cemetery in Le Center.