Posted on March 24, 2023

The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of John D. Cooney Sr., an incredible member of our community. An esteemed mesothelioma lawyer, John passed away on February 23, 2023 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, surrounded by his adoring family. John was 68 years old at the time of his passing.

I had the deep honor to work with John back in 2006. He was intelligent, impressive, and unwavering in fighting for civil and social justice. I deeply respect the work he did.

Born and raised in Oak Park, Illinois, John was an exceptional individual whose vibrant personality and unyielding passion for life made him a beacon to all who knew him. People who knew him would say that his brilliant intellect was matched by his wit, humor, and an unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and clients. His community will continue to honor his memory by cherishing the profound connections he forged throughout his life.

John graduated from Fenwick High School before earning his undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and a Juris Doctor from the Loyola University School of Law. While working as a prominent trial attorney at Cooney & Conway, LLP in Chicago, John established one of the country’s leading legal practices specializing in representing individuals affected by asbestos-related diseases. John’s tireless dedication to his clients’ pursuit of justice has had a profound and lasting impact on the lives of thousands of people worldwide. He was tireless in speaking out for and protecting asbestos victims. In this light, John served as president of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and chairman of numerous court-appointed committees representing asbestos victims. His exceptional character and steadfast commitment to his clients earned him widespread respect and admiration among his peers, judges, and the legal community.

John was a generous philanthropist, contributing to a wide array of charitable causes, including the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he was a member of the Board of Trustees. His altruistic efforts have positively impacted the lives of countless individuals, in Chicago, Illinois, and throughout the nation. 

On behalf of ADAO, we send our sincere condolences to John’s devoted wife of 35 years, Barbara Cooney, their loving children Elizabeth (Matt Caraher), Devitt (Bess), and Bobby (Hutton), and the Cooney and Conway firm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in John’s honor may be made to support mesothelioma research at the University of Chicago Medicine can be made online at http://giving.uchicago.edu/john-cooney.

John’s indelible spirit, compassion, and commitment to the betterment of others will be remembered and celebrated by all those whose lives he touched.

Linda Reinstein