Obituary of David Norman Mooney

David Norman Mooney, 87, passed away on Saturday, October 7th, 2023 in Clearwater, FL. He was born in Wendel, WV on Jan 7th, 1936 to Virginia Rowan Mooney Holbert (1909-2007) and Fred Mooney (1888-1952, notably of the Matewan mine wars). Brother to Freda Cutlip (1931-2008), Eugene (1933-1960), Forrest (1943-2023), Twila Miller Meredith (1945-2022) and Doug (1949-2009). Step-brother to Irving (1910-1992), Mitchell (1913-1999) and Harold Mooney (1916-2008). He is survived by brothers Victor (Milan, OH) and Gregg (Suwanee, GA) Mooney. He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Sondra Jeanne Stewart Mooney (1943-2022) originally of Corpus Christie, TX and is survived by their four children: Donald J. Mooney (Long Beach, CA), James S. Mooney (Burnet, TX), Fredrick H. Mooney (Tujunga, CA) and Tracy A. Stewart (Clearwater, FL), along with nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren (many of whom are now in Denver, CO). Dave paved his own way from working in the coal mines after school to the Marines and then to the West where he attended UCLA, eventually holding degrees in both engineering and business. Professionally, Dave started out as an electrician, TV repairman, machinist and ended up as an innovator in aerospace hydraulics design after being encouraged by a prominent firm. He designed precision parts for the Columbia space shuttle, Boeing’s 727, 747 and 777, among others. Many of his designs are still in use to this day. He was one of ten who received a Presidential citation for excellence in engineering in the early 70’s. He did not believe in retirement. Even in the last few years he continued to work on unique designs to address housing, energy and fire safety issues and never slowed down. Dave was a Boy Scout leader for all three of his boys and instilled of a love of history, travel and adventure in all of his children. He visited China, India, Spain and the Caribbean to name a few, was an avid golfer and got his scuba license at the age of 45. He set an excellent example of hard work and rewarding play. He also had a joke (or several) for every topic and occasion. He is remembered with love and gratitude. The family has entrusted the arrangements to the Ford Funeral Home, Ford Chapel 201 Columbia Street, Fairmont, WV 26554. A memorial service will be held in the funeral home on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 11 a.m. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.fordfuneralhomes.com.