In Memory of Kevin P. Cooney

President & CEO of Frank Cooney Company

- Educational Environments

Kevin Patrick Cooney, beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away in his home after a private battle with cancer, leaving a legacy of love and generosity. Born on April 5, 1957, in Oak Park to Frank and Florence Cooney, Kevin was the fourth of six children and grew up in Niles, Illinois.

In his twenties, Kevin took over the family business, which his father had founded selling educational furniture to schools across Illinois. He ran the company with his brother, Gregory, and sister, Peggy and, later, met his wife there, Julie, who became an integral part of the family. During his nearly 50 years at Frank Cooney Company, 10 years as an employee and 40 years as an owner, his passion for the furniture industry has been unwavering, and the legacy he leaves us is profound.

After more than a decade of dating, Kevin and Julie married on December 31, 2010. Kevin found joy in their shared homes in Palatine, Illinois, Bradenton, Florida, and Twin Lakes, Wisconsin. A true lover of the water, he relished boating, watersports, and driving his pontoon boat around Twin Lakes, always with music and the scenic views in the background. He embraced his Irish heritage and was known for his wit, often delivering one-liners that brought laughter to those around him.

Beyond his passions, Kevin was a devoted family man. He cherished his role as a brother to five siblings, an uncle and great uncle to over 20 nieces and nephews, and a caretaker to his extended family. He was an employer to more than 40 people and a steadfast friend to many. His homes were always open to family and friends, and he was known for his uncanny ability to negotiate anything. His street smarts and generous spirit were unmatched.

Kevin is survived by his wife Julie; siblings Terrence Cooney (Joan), Gregory Cooney (Solveig) & Peggy Cooney; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Florence Cooney; brothers Tom and Michael Cooney and other beloved family members

Your support is appreciated as we work through this difficult time as a family, and family operated business.  

Kevin’s services will be the week of November 3rd - detailed information can be found here. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ups for Downs or Rush Cancer Center.

Many Thanks,

Gregory, Peggy, Julie & the Cooney Family