D. Petronella (Nell) Rooney

Surrounded by love, Nell Rooney passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, just before her 82nd birthday, leaving behind family who loved her deeply. Originally from Holland, Nell arrived in Canada at the age of three. She was the youngest of six children and the only girl, predeceased by her parents Catherina and Pieter Van Leyen. She was also predeceased by her brothers Nick, Ben, Pete, and Andy, and is survived by her brother Theo (Simone). After arriving in Canada, Nell grew up in the Horton area before moving to Ottawa, where she worked for many years at Dominion Stores. It was there that her strong work ethic truly began and where she met her husband, Evans (Mick) Rooney. After marrying, Nell and Mick moved to Cobden in 1971, where they built their lives and businesses together. Nell quickly became well known throughout the community for her unmatched work ethic, helping hands, strong opinions, and unforgettable personality. She was never one to sit still and was always willing to lend a hand wherever she was needed. Whether through her involvement with the Legion, local council matters, volunteering, crafts, or community events, Nell made her presence known and her impact felt throughout Cobden. For many years, Nell proudly ran the kitchen at Christmas markets, where she became well known for her Christmas cakes, baking, and dedication to bringing people together. Cooking and baking for others was one of the many ways she showed her love. Nell had a sharp sense of humor, loved to laugh, loved to swear, and was always the type of person who could light up a room. In her younger years, she loved to party, socialize, and have a good time, carrying that lively spirit with her throughout her entire life. She also loved travelling, gambling, and spending evenings watching movies, especially horror movies. Nell was truly one of a kind: creative, funny, caring, stubborn, generous, and completely unforgettable. Above all else, Nell was a devoted mother and grandmother. Her love for her family and others, was immeasurable. She was a wonderful mother who always went above and beyond for those she loved, raising her children Mitch, Scott (Tamara), and Shannon (Leory). At the age of 60,she also took in and raised her granddaughter Abbey (Scott), a role she cherished deeply. Nell poured endless love, creativity, and care into raising her children and Abbey. She was constantly teaching lessons about life, sharing stories, creating memories, and making even ordinary moments feel special. Nell is survived by her grandchildren Tyler, Crystal (Cody), Jada, Cooper (Liberty) and great-grandchildren Addilyn and Kevin, as well as many nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly. She will also be missed by her special canine companion, Maisy. Nell will always be remembered for her lively spirit, strong sense of self, sense of humor, generosity, and the lasting impact she had on everyone around her. To know Nell was to know someone authentic, resilient, loving, and impossible to forget. Her absence will be deeply felt by her family, friends, and the community she cared for so deeply. She was truly one of the best people this world had to offer. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, PSWs, and all members of Nell’s care team for the compassion and kindness they showed throughout her care. Your support during such a difficult time will never be forgotten. Friends may call at the Fraser-Morris and Heubner Funeral Home Cobden, Friday July 24, 2026 from 2-4 and 7-9pm. A funeral service will be held in the chapel on Saturday July 25, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., followed by a celebration of Nell’s life at the Cobden Legion at 3:30 p.m. All who knew and loved Nell are welcome to join in sharing memories, laughter, and stories as we honour the remarkable woman she was.