He was born on August 1, 1936, in Springfield, IL, the son of Thomas and Mary (Simpson) Rooney. He married Donna K. Westmorlan in 1954, and she preceded him in death in 2002. He then married Patricia Lynn Arvin in 2006.
Peter attended St. Agnes Elementary School and Cathedral Boys High School, graduating in 1954. A proud native of Springfield, Illinois, he honorably served in the Air National Guard and dedicated 42 years of service to the State Journal-Register. He was a proud member of Elks Lodge No. 158 and a faithful member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.
Peter enjoyed spending time working in his yard, fishing, and listening to Big Band music. Above all, his family was the center of his life and brought him great joy. Known for his thoughtfulness, meticulous nature, and tireless energy, Peter was a man who took pride in everything he did and always found something meaningful to keep him busy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Mary; first wife, Donna Rooney; daughter, Terri Shiffer; siblings, Mary Baculas, Elizabeth Feltz, and Thomas, James, and George Rooney; and granddaughter, Heather Deanne Rooney
Peter is survived by his wife, Patricia; son, Kevin Rooney of Auburn; sibling, Sr. Marion Rooney of Chicago, IL; nine grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: The family will receive friends at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, October 26, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home-Chatham, 8855 State Route 4 Chatham, IL until the time of the Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Joshua Traxel officiating.
Burial will follow at Chatham Memorial Cemetery in Chatham, IL.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Our Saviors Lutheran Church of Springfield or The Shriner’s Hospital of St. Louis, Mo.
Please visit www.butlerchatham.com to offer condolences.
