Carol Rooney

Carol Rooney, age 75 of Glenwood, died Thursday, July 3, 2025 at the Glenwood Retirement Village. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 9th at St. Donatus Catholic Church in Brooten. Visitation will be Tuesday, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Saint Donatus Catholic Church in Brooten, with the rosary prayed at 5:00 PM followed by parish prayers at 5:30 PM. Visitation will also continue at the church one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. Interment will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Sedan. Arrangements are with the Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home in Glenwood.

Born on January 8, 1950, in Glenwood, MN, Carol Ann Rooney was the beloved first daughter and third of eight children born to Leonard Joseph and Viola Anna (Lokowitch) Rooney. Her early years were spent on a farm near Brooten, where she cultivated a love for the simple joys of life and the value of family.

Carol's educational journey began in the rural settings of her childhood, where she attended Immaculate Conception Church in Sedan. It was there that she was baptized and received her first sacraments, laying the foundation for her lifelong Christian faith. A 1968 graduate of Brooten High School, Carol's dedication to helping others led her to pursue a career in nursing. She earned her LPN degree from Willmar Vocational School in 1969, and went on to have a distinguished nursing career, where her nurturing spirit shone brightly. She was employed at Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar, the Belgrade Nursing Home, and later dedicated 27 years to the Glenwood Retirement Home. Her professional path also included entrepreneurial ventures as part owner of Rooster's Bottle Shop and "R" Salads in Brooten, along with several part-time jobs. No matter where she worked, Carol's warmth and kindness forged numerous and lasting friendships.

Carol's life was a tapestry of love and community involvement. Her Christian faith was a cornerstone, guiding her through life's challenges and joys. She embraced her interests with enthusiasm, whether it was knitting, crocheting, embroidering, playing cards, assembling jigsaw puzzles, or engaging in a lively game of Bingo. Carol's dedication to making Christmas candies for loved ones was a cherished tradition, and her presence at family gatherings was a source of joy and laughter.

Those who knew Carol will fondly remember her infectious laugh, genuine smile, and quick wit. She had a special way with children, her playful nature coaxing even the shyest child into laughter and delight. Carol's loving, friendly, and thoughtful demeanor left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Carol Rooney, a cherished sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025, at Glenwood Retirement Home, having lived to the age of 75.

Carol is survived by her adoring family: two sisters, Marilynn Lysen of Glenwood and Jean Rooney of Brooten; four brothers, Ron (Ilona) Rooney of Emily, Tom Rooney of Brooten, Tim Rooney of Montrose, and Tony Rooney of Sedan; five nieces, Stefanie (Donny) Steinhofer, Kristi (James) Hendershot, Karla (Shawn) Petermann, Amy (Jason) VanZee, and Kris (Kyle) Hanson; and eight nephews, Andy (Jana) Rooney, Dwayne (Viki) Davis, Weldon (Denise) Rooney, Scott Rooney, Pat (Heidi) Rooney, John (Becky) Lysen, Nathan (Kayla) Rooney, and Bill (Tina) Kellogg. She also leaves behind several great-nieces and great-nephews who will miss her dearly.

Carol was preceded in death by her loving parents; her brother, Dan Rooney; two nephews, Jason and Rusty Rooney; a sister-in-law, Sandy Rooney; and a brother-in-law, Steve Lysen.

Carol Rooney's legacy is one of love, laughter, and the tender care she provided to all. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories shared by those who loved her. As we bid farewell to Carol, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of compassion and friendship. Her spirit will continue to inspire us, reminding us of the beauty in kindness and the power of a life dedicated to others.

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