David C. "Dave" Cooney

David "Dave" Cooney, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on March 3.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Doris Cooney, his in-laws, Robert and Mary Ann Metz, his brother Gregory Cooney, and his nephew, Tyler Cooney.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Patty; his daughter Lori (Smith) and her husband Jim, parents to Trevor and Myla; his son Rob and his wife Keri, parents to Ely, Alex, and Anna; and his son Greg and his wife Monica, parents to Claire and Graham. He is also survived by his brothers, Denny and Tim Cooney, sister Sue Sokolowski (Jim), sisters-in-law Sue Zielinski and Kathy Metz, numerous nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

His greatest joy in life was his family, and he took immense pride in being a loving husband, father, and "Papa" to his cherished grandchildren.

Born and raised in Erie, Dave was a proud graduate of Academy High School's Class of 1970. He furthered his education at the State University of New York (SUNY) Morrisville, earning a degree in agriculture and technology in 1972. Shortly after, he began what would become a lifelong career in the beverage industry. Starting at Mehler 7UP, Dave joined Pepsi in 1975, where he built a reputation for his creativity, dedication, and deep connections with his customers. Whether as a driver, in merchandising, sales, or dispatch, he was known for his innovative Pepsi displays and sign-making. His loyalty to the brand extended well beyond his career-Dave would never be caught ordering a Coke, even in retirement! He bid farewell to Pepsi in 2012 when Parkinson's Disease made work too challenging, but he remained as passionate about the company as ever.

Despite his diagnosis, Dave never complained, nor did he allow the disease to rob him of his spirit. He dedicated himself to fundraising walks benefiting Parkinson's Partners of Northwest PA, personally helping to raise over $100,000 to support others facing the same battle.

A man of deep and unwavering faith, Dave was a devoted member of Blessed Sacrament Church, where he attended daily Mass and previously served as a Eucharistic minister. His faith was not just something he believed in but something he modeled through his kindness and generosity.

Dave greatly appreciated time spent in the outdoors, especially with family and friends. He built Camp Lucky Buck with his family in 1975, where he enjoyed hunting and passing down traditions. More recently in the last 15 years, he spent his hunting time at Rob's homestead in McKean where he enjoyed countless hours in the stand and cherished time with family. He also loved fishing with his grandchildren, whether in a pond for panfish and bass, in a stream for trout and steelhead, or heading to Lake Erie for perch and walleye. More than the catch, he treasured the camaraderie and memories made in nature.

Dave was his grandchildren's biggest fan, cheering them on at games, recitals, and events. He was always willing to indulge their (and his own) sweet tooth - from Mighty Fine donuts, to ice cream, to root beer floats.

He also loved family vacations to the Outer Banks and Sandbridge, as well as trips with friends to the Caribbean, Alaska, Grand Canyon, and New England.

At home, Dave took great pride in his perfectly manicured lawn -often boasting the greenest grass in the neighborhood. His skills as a builder and painter extended beyond his own home, as he was always eager to lend a helping hand to friends and family with their projects.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Parkinson's Partners of NWPA, particularly Executive Director Lynne Gotham, as well as the dedicated support group members, wellness class instructors, Speak Out Voice Project at PennWest, and Gannon PT/OT program volunteers. Special thanks also go to his movement specialists/neurologists Dr. Baser, Dr. Nacopoulos, and the compassionate team at AseraCare Hospice-Kristin, Bre, Sandy, Kymberly, and Dr. Barac-for their incredible care and support.

In honor of Dave's legacy, donations may be made to Parkinson's Partners of NWPA or Blessed Sacrament Church Renovation Project.

Though Parkinson's challenged his body, it never dimmed his spirit. Dave's life was defined not by illness, but by his faith, love for family, and the joy he brought to everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those he touched.

Friends may call on Friday at the Kloecker Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc 2502 Sassafras St. Erie, PA 16502 from 3 pm to 7 pm and are invited to the Funeral Mass on Saturday at Blessed Sacrament Church at 10 am. Send condolences to www.kloeckerfuneralhome.com

Burial will be private.