MR. DANIEL MICHAEL COONEY's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Daniel Michael Cooney
November 22, 1951 – August 27, 2025
Daniel Michael Cooney, a lifelong resident and steadfast pillar of the River Rouge community, passed away peacefully at his home on August 27, 2025, at the age of 73. Surrounded by love and in the city he gave his heart to, Dan’s journey came to a gentle close.
Born on November 22, 1951, in Wyandotte, Michigan, Dan spent his life devoted to his hometown. He began serving his community at a young age, working for the River Rouge Department of Public Works from 1970 until his retirement in 1999. His dedication didn’t stop there — Dan continued to lead and serve with integrity as Mayor of River Rouge from 1988 to 1993, and later as City Commissioner from November 2013 until his final day. To those who knew him, Dan wasn’t just a public servant — he was a neighbor, a friend, a helping hand, and a trusted voice.
Dan was also a passionate pyrotechnician who loved to light up the sky for his city — and for many others. Whether it was the Fourth of July or a special community celebration, he took pride in bringing joy and wonder to people through fireworks, creating memories that lit up more than just the night.
He was a man who believed in showing up — whether that was for a city council meeting or event, a snowstorm cleanup, or an always memorable time with family. He lived his life with humility, strength, and an unwavering commitment to making his community a better place.
Dan was preceded in death by his loving parents, James Bernard Cooney and Elizabeth Ida (Bernard) Cooney; his brothers, Wayne and Brian; and his sisters, Ilene and Arleen Cooney — all of whom he held dear and spoke of often with fondness and love.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Arlene, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories, love, and partnership; his son, James; his daughter, Danielle (Cooney) Caudill, son in-law David; his treasured granddaughters, Destiny and Desiray, who brought him endless pride and joy. His sister Doreen (Mike) Harris, and his brother Kevin (Bonnie) Cooney. Dan’s love for his family was boundless, and his role as husband, father, and grandfather was one he carried with deep honor.
His absence will be felt deeply by all who knew him, but the legacy of his compassion, service, and strength will live on in the city he helped shape — and in the hearts of those who loved him.
A funeral service to celebrate Dan’s life will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 12:30pm at the Clora Funeral home in River Rouge. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that acts of kindness be carried out in Dan’s memory — a reflection of the way he lived every day.
What’s your fondest memory of DANIEL?
What’s a lesson you learned from DANIEL?
Share a story where DANIEL's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with DANIEL you’ll never forget.
How did DANIEL make you smile?
