Jean Prust Cooney

Jean Prust Cooney of Western Springs, Illinois passed away on the morning of October 16, 2010, in her home at the age of ninety-two. Born in rural West Union on January 16, 1918, she was the only child of Milo (1982) and Lenore Prust (1987). She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 44 years, John (1994), and daughter Cynthia (2003).Surviving relatives include one cousin Sue Nestleroad of Martinsville, Illinois, and her sons James, John and Matthew. Mike Kearns and Mary Jean Herre and families of Robinson, Illinois. Sister in laws Mildred Cooney of Lodi, Wisconsin and Joan Cooney of Derion, Illinois. Loving friends near and far, young and old, especially the Jean Woods Goddard Family and the Bill, Jennifer and Alyssa Smoot. Long time neighbors sharing both fun and difficult times, especially the Rych, Hahn and Gowgiel families. Bill Lenzi family, John Hodorowicz family, Arthur Jeros, Dr. Allan Muehrcke, and special caregiver Rosa Bacerott. Several nieces and nephews. Jean spent her childhood in the West Union area. She attended elementary school in a one room school house in Walnut Prairie, where her teacher, Fred Huffington presented her with a certificate for the highest grade point average. She was a graduate of Marshall High School, and then attended Purdue University. Following graduation, she was employed in Chicago, by Commonwealth Edison and Illinois Bell. She also enjoyed volunteer work and was co-chairman for Community Nursing Services Senior Center in Western Springs.Jean was a devoted wife, mother, homemaker and farm manager. Her first love was always home and family. She was an astute businesswoman and always enjoyed taking care of family home and farm interests. She loved professional sports, along with college football and basketball. She was an avid Cubs, Bears and Bulls fan. Those that knew her, knew that Jean loved to have fun, but could be serious when she needed to be and opinionated when she felt it was appropriate. Jean loved living in the city, but always knew her home was on the farm. She enjoyed spending time at her rural West Union farm home. It was always a gathering place for family and friends. She was always appreciative of the late Richard Bumpus and Mike Huffington families for their help around the farm. Jean was loved by her family and admired by so many friends. A celebration of life will take place at the Prust-Hosch Funeral Home in West Union. Visitation is on Tuesday, October 19, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, October 20, at 11:00 A.M., at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Marshall, with Fr. Chris Brey presiding. Burial will follow in the Marshall Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that a contribution be made to the Mental Health Association, Vista Hospice Care or charity of your choice, with envelopes available at the funeral home.