Obituary of Michael Joseph Rooney

Michael J. Rooney, of Indianapolis, passed away suddenly this week. He was born in Yonkers, New York to Joan and Thomas Rooney, and he was raised in Ledyard, Connecticut. Mike spent the last 30 years of his life in the Indianapolis area; for the majority of that time, he was an engineer in the IndyCar Racing industry, for Chip Ganassi Racing. Mike is survived by his loving wife of 32 years Renee’ (Yates) Rooney, daughter Shannon (Rooney) Morrison and husband Kevin Morrison, his son Brenden Rooney, brothers Thomas, James, and Peter, and sisters Kathy and Peggy, and many nieces and nephews. He loved his family and was a dedicated husband, father and employee who touched many lives. Those that knew and loved him describe him as bright, witty, patient, and wonderfully unselfish, with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. He was an ardent advocate for the underdog and his way with words was unparalleled. Michael’s impish smirk and smile, and his hearty laugh brought joy to those in his company. His passions were racing, sailing, windsurfing, and he also loved all other sports. He is, and will be, greatly missed by everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Calling hours will be 11am-1pm on Wednesday October 18, 2017 at St. Christopher Catholic Church, on West 16th Street, followed by Mass at 1 o’clock. A Celebration of Life will be held after the service, at the Dallara IndyCar Factory on Main Street, in Speedway. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to one of Mike’s favorite organizations, the Kentuckiana Pug Rescue, or to the American Heart Association.