John was born in Covington, Louisiana, to Jeanette Louise (Leeds) and Michael Frederick Cooney. He is survived by his parents and siblings, Mary Magnuson (Eric), Susannah Clark (Brandon), Frederick Cooney, and Elizabeth Cooney. He is also survived by his beloved niece and nephews: Emma, Colin and Caleb Magnuson, Otis Leniger, Emmet Clark, Owen Turnipseed, Robert Upson and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, his uncle John M. Cooney and his beloved dog Gannett.
From the age of 4, John grew up in Pinedale and graduated from Pinedale High School. After graduation, John worked as a landscaper, a job that allowed him to be outdoors. He was a long-time employee of the TLC company in Jackson.
Those who knew John knew his big heart. He was a kind, selfless, generous soul and was always looking to help others. The youngest of five siblings, he was affectionately known as Johnny. John easily made new friends and he never knew a stranger. He was always quick with a smile, laugh and a joke. He was known as Uncle John to his niece and six nephews. John adored them; he was often found sitting and reading to them. John rarely went anywhere without his dog Gannett, his closest and most loyal companion of 12 years.
John’s love for Wyoming and its natural beauty was as immense as the mountains he climbed. He was most at home being outdoors with his friends. A fearless skier and avid fisherman, he boated, hiked, skied and rode the mountains, rivers and lakes he grew up around. With his sporting equipment in tow, he was always prepared for his next adventure. His love for and devotion to his community, friends and coworkers was apparent. John advocated for preserving and respecting the environment he loved for the enjoyment of future generations. He believed in respect and equality for all people. John especially enjoyed volunteering his free time with the high school ski team to spread his love of the sport.
John was rarely seen without his button-up shirts tucked in, boots on, and sunglasses resting on his ballcap. He worked hard and played even harder; a cowboy at heart from the day he was born.
“To me, skiing feels like flying through a field of clouds.” – John Cooney, age 14
We know you are flying through the clouds now, Johnny.
In memory of John, please consider making a donation to the Jae Foundation, Sublette County Ski and Snowboard Association, or your local animal shelter.
