Thomas Leo Mooney
April 16, 1936~ November 22, 2018
Thomas Leo Mooney, 82, of Harper, Oregon passed away at his home on November 22, 2018 with his wife by his side.
Tom was born on April 16, 1936 in Sacramento California. He was the son of Joseph and Levea Mooney. He was raised in the “sticks” of Roseville, California and graduated from Roseville High School in 1955. He met his wife JoAnn Dunning in high school and he took her on their first date in his favorite car, a 1955 Bel Air Convertible. Tom and JoAnn were married on February 1, 1958.
Soon after marriage, Tom and JoAnn welcomed Karen, Tom, and Kris into the world. In 1964, Tom and his two brothers bought a cattle ranch together in Harper, Oregon. The three Mooney brothers and their families made the “big” move to Oregon. In 1966, Tom and JoAnn’s family grew once again. They welcomed a daughter, Kim. Four years later another son was born, Jason. For fifteen years, many memories were made on the ranch. During that time, Tom and his brothers worked hard raising cattle and kids. In 1978, the cattle ranch was sold.
After the cattle ranch was sold, Tom and JoAnn bought the house on the hill. Tom continued to work hard. He stayed connected to the ranching world by raising his own cattle and working as a brand inspector. He also spent many years working with his very close friends the Marcheks. Tom continued to find time to spend with his family. The house on the hill provided many memories for all his children and grandchildren. Many family gatherings were held at the house on the hill which included big Easter egg hunts, birthday parties, pre-wedding parties, or any excuse to get together. Not only did Tom and JoAnn open their home to family, but also hosted a foreign exchange student from Spain, Alejandro. Alejandro and his family became part of their family. Tom was very dedicated to supporting his loved ones in whatever activity they were involved in. He rarely missed a game or performance.
Retirement came easy for Tom. He spent his days growing plants in his greenhouse, witching wells for his neighbors, cutting calves, moving cows, camping and fishing. He enjoyed sitting in the sun in his rocking chair looking out the window at the “view.” He was known for his big hugs. He was a man of very few words, but his hugs spoke measures. He was very proud of his kids, grandkids and great grandkids. He was truly a family man and a true friend. His calloused hands represented his love for country living. When their house on the hill of 40 years burned down in December, they were overwhelmed by the out pouring of love and generosity by their family, friends, community members and many others. In his words he said, “I can’t believe so many people care.” It was very difficult for them to be on the other end of the giving stick, but they were truly thankful.
He is survived by his wife JoAnn, his children Karen Shira (David), Tom Mooney, Kris Yraguen (Rick), Kim Kaschmitter (Jeff), and Jason Mooney, siblings Bob Mooney, David Mooney (Marge), and Virginia Mooney (Ricky), 17 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, The Mesa family, and many other family members.
He is preceded in death by his father Joe, mother Levea, and sister-in-law Eileen Mooney.
A Rosary will be held on Thursday, November 29 at 7:00 pm at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Vale Oregon.
His funeral will be held on Friday, November 30, 2018 @ 10:00 am at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Vale, Oregon.
Everyone is invited to a luncheon at the Parish Hall provided by the St. Patrick’s Altar Society and Harper’s Ladies Club immediately following the graveside service at Valley View Cemetery in Vale, OR.
Salute Dad, until we meet again.
Deaths:
• Cheryl A. Campbell, 82, of Payette, died Nov. 18 in a Payette Care Facility. Haren-Wood Funeral Chapel, Payette.
• Violet Van Sickle, 98, of Ontario, died Nov. 20 at a local assisted living facility. Lienkaemper Chapel, Ontario.
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