After his time with the FAI and Baltimore Technologies, Rooney went on to become a barrister of law and a proud grandfather
Mr Rooney’s eldest daughter Yvonne spoke at the service on behalf of her siblings Laura and Dave.
“Many of you knew him as a highly accomplished professional, a man of great intellect and relentless determination. But for me, my brother and my sister, he was simply Dad, a source of love, wisdom, and endless support,” Yvonne told mourners.
She also spoke of her father’s love for his family and community.
“I recall a simpler time when Dad worked at the GPO… we would have waved to Dad from Henry Street through the window and watched him wave back with that familiar warm smile.
“Once his work was done, he’d take us for sausages and chips. And it wasn’t just about the food, it was about those precious moments we spent together, feeling his love and presence despite the hectic pace of life.”
Yvonne added that family discussions were “a staple” in the Rooney household.
“A lot of you would have been part of, especially during his tenure at Baltimore, nights spent sitting together, including not just the family but anyone willing to join, discuss some major decisions and future steps,” she recalled.
“Those moments were more than brainstorming sessions – there were bonding experiences, teaching us the value of inclusion and teamwork.”
The remains of Fran Rooney leave The Church of Our Lady Mother of the Church in Castleknock following his funeral mass. Photo: Steve Humphreys
The father of three, who died peacefully on Monday at the age of 67 surrounded by his loved ones at St Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin, always had time for his family despite his busy work, Yvonne said.
“Although his career often required extensive travel, my father made it a priority to be home on weekends ensuring he spent quality time with his family and friends,” she said.
“Saturdays were dedicated to coaching my brother Dave’s under-13s rugby team – Dad brought the same passion and commitment to the field that he showed in his professional life.
“He was not just a coach, but a mentor, instilling values of teamwork, perseverance and sportsmanship in every young player.”
She added that it was lovely to see the “lads from that team” today.
Yvonne described her father’s career as “nothing short of remarkable”.
“He began in the public service, dedicating his early years to making a difference in our community. His commitment to serving others laid a strong foundation for the diverse and impactful career that followed,” she said.
“Transitioning into the corporate world, he brought vision and leadership to every role he undertook, he ended his professional journey as a respected barrister, a role that combined his sharp mind and his deep sense of justice.
“Throughout his career, one constant remained, though – his unwavering love and dedication to sport. His passion for football was not just a pastime, it was a vital part of who he was.”
Mr Rooney was also passionate about kickboxing and attained his black belt at the age of 50, being an active member of the kickboxing community.
“This accomplishment was another testament to his dedication, discipline and the pursuit of excellence in everything he did,” she said.Yvonne added that her father taught his children a “tremendous work ethic” and that he loved his grandchildren.
“Dad was overjoyed when his first grandchild Seán arrived in 2015, to be joined by his brother Daire in 2017. He used to visit, always remembering to bring Maltesers, and often came to the boys’ football matches,” she said.
“Even in his passing, he made the boys happy by making them famous, getting their first mention in papers this week,” she said.
She described her father as “a man whose life was filled with achievement, love and boundless generosity”.
Mr Rooney’s funeral was attended by his friends and family and figures from the worlds of business and sport, including former Ireland international Niall Quinn.
Mr Rooney started out as a player with Home Farm Football Club and lined out for a number of other League of Ireland clubs.
He stepped up to management when he was appointed as boss of the senior women’s international team in 1986, a position he held until 1991.
After holding a series of roles in National Irish Bank, An Post and Quay Financial Software, he made his name in the business world, working with Baltimore Technologies from 1996. At its peak, Baltimore was valued at $13bn, but its value tumbled when the dot com bubble burst in 2000. Rooney left in 2001 and pursued other business interests.
His business experience led him back to the FAI when he was hired as CEO in May 2003. But he had exited within 18 months amid internal strife, eventually being replaced by John Delaney.
Kickboxing was another one of the sports that probably most of you don’t know that he did but as usual, he’s going to excel in that
Speaking at his funeral, Mr Rooney’s best friend Declan Flynn said Mr Rooney would be “thrilled to know that he can still command a packed house”.
His two grandchildren, Seán and Daire, brought mementos symbolising their grandfather’s talents to the altar – a football signed by the Irish football team and a kickboxing black belt.
“Everyone knew Fran’s love of football as a player, manager, administrator and spectator, and to symbolise that, a signed football as presented from the Irish football team,” Mr Flynn said.
“Kickboxing was another one of the sports that probably most of you don’t know that he did but as usual, he’s going to excel in that,” he added.
A barrister’s wig was placed at the table near the altar, to remember the legal career he pursued after his time in the tech industry and with the FAI.
“Many years ago, I asked him what he would do when he made his money and retired, and he immediately said law as a hobby – some hobby. His barrister’s wig shows his constant drive to achieve,” Mr Flynn said.
The last gift and symbol of Mr Rooney’s love and care for his grandchildren was a packet of Maltesers.
“Fran’s great joy was obviously Daire and Seán. He loved talking about them and he loved going to see them. And he always brought Maltesers,” Mr Flynn added.
Mr Rooney is survived by his children Yvonne, Dave and Laura, his grandchildren Seán and Daire, his former wife Mary, his partner Jackie, and brothers John, Joe, Dermot and sister Imelda. He was predeceased by his brother Raymond.
The Dubliner’s funeral took place at 11am in the Church of Our Lady Mother of the Church in Castleknock, followed by cremation in Newlands Cross Crematorium.