JOHN J. CARNEY

JOHN J. CARNEY, age 80, Beloved husband for 53 years of Tana (nee Nintcheff); dear father to John (Leah) and Michael; adoring grandfather to Xaiver and Molly, who were the light of his life; cherished brother to Jim (Sherri), Joe, and Jeanne Hagan, and brother-in-law to Linda Nintcheff; loving uncle and great-uncle to numerous nieces and nephews; friend to many.    

Born on July 27, 1944, to the late Virginia (nee Dreisig) and the Honorable John J. Carney, John lived his life with remarkable integrity and a characteristic Irish twinkle in his eye. His humble, positive demeanor and welcoming charm touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. John's infectious laugh could fill a room, often preceded by his mischievous sense of humor that endeared him to friends and family alike. 

As a successful real estate developer, John was known as a visionary.  He deeply loved Cleveland and dedicated much of his career to improving the city he called home. Carney’s civic leadership roles have included chair and member of the Board of the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority from 1998 to 2010; chair of the Downtown Cleveland Alliance; and first chairman of the Downtown Cleveland Improvement Corporation. He has also served on the Boards of the Downtown Cleveland Partnership, the Playhouse Square Foundation, and Metro Health System, and on the visiting committee of the Cleveland State University Levin School of Urban Affairs. His vision for Cleveland's potential and his commitment to its development reflected his unwavering belief in the community's future. 

A man of refined tastes, John was an avid wine connoisseur and book collector. His passion for literature and fine wines was matched only by his love for travel, hiking, skiing, and golf. He was a dedicated 50-year member of Westwood Country Club and a valued member of the Rowfant Club, where he shared his enthusiasm for literature and fellowship. 

John's adventurous spirit took him across the globe as a world traveler, exploring all seven continents. He frequently invited family and friends to join him on his journeys, and for those who could not attend, he always returned with captivating stories that inspired others to explore.  John would say that the greatest wealth he accumulated was not in possessions, but in the collection of memories he made along the way.   

Those who knew John will forever remember his cheerful disposition, his generosity, and the genuine interest he took in others' lives and well-being. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched with kindness and the memories treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

Passed away at his home surrounded by his family Sunday, May 25, 2025.  Funeral Mass Saturday, May 31, St Christopher Church (20141 Detroit Rd Rocky River) at 10 A.M. Interment Lakewood Park Cemetery. Friends may call at CHAMBERS FUNERAL HOME of CLEVELAND, 4420 ROCKY RIVER DRIVE AT PURITAS  FRIDAY 4-7 P.M.  The family suggests memorial contributions to Hospice of the Western Reserve P.O. Box 72200, Cleveland, Ohio 44192.

Link to livestream of Funeral Mass:  stchrisparish.com