Barbara J. (Rooney) Marcolongo, a loving mother

Barbara J. (Rooney) Marcolongo, 79, died unexpectedly Monday, Dec. 28, 2020, and passed through the gates of heaven into the loving arms of her husband Bob, who predeceased her in December 2010.

Barbara was born and raised in Mt. Carmel, Pa., the youngest of 10 children born to Edward and Mary Rooney. She lived for many years in Levittown, Pa., where she was a homemaker and part-time salesperson at Bamberger’s; but her most important role was that of Mom to her daughters Suzanne and Danielle, whom she adored. She was a loving and protective mother, always supporting her daughters in their endeavors. After they were grown, Barbara and Bob spent several years living near the Jersey Shore, then Lake Wallenpaupack, Pa., eventually settling in Dover, where they made many dear friends.

Throughout her life, Barbara loved to entertain. Christmas was one of her favorite holidays, and she went out of her way to make the holiday special for her family. She especially enjoyed her annual Christmas cookie contest with her siblings and extended family. She looked forward to hosting her weekly card parties and trying out new recipes on her friends.

Barbara was extremely proud of her four grandchildren and loved spending time with them. She taught them the importance of family, to be adventurous and live life to the fullest, and how to play card games (and lose!).

Barbara was energetic and young at heart, and her smile could light up a room. She enjoyed retail therapy and visits to the casino, but most of all she cherished time spent with her family and friends. She brought happiness and fun wherever she went, and left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She will be deeply missed. 

Barbara is survived by her sister Anna Mae Fatz; her daughters Suzanne (Dave) Metz and Danielle (Tory) VanderWerf; and her grandchildren Kaitlyn Metz Richards (Brian), Kristy Metz (Skip Wilson), Tayler VanderWerf and Cole VanderWerf; as well as many nieces and nephews who loved their “Aunt Cookie.”

Funeral Services will be private. Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Dover.

Condolences and memories can be shared via www.ambruso.com.

Arrangements by Michael J. Ambruso Funeral Director Inc., Dover.