Matthew ‘
Dutch
‘ Rooney –
son of the founder of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Art Rooney
– was discovered deceased at his residence in East Hampton on August 15. He had reached the age of 51.

The reason for his passing remains undisclosed, raising uncertainties within both the soccer community and New York’s artistic scene, where Rooney was well-known.

Part of one of America’s top sporting families, he established himself as a writer, art supporter, and regular attendee at ballet and operatic performances.

“The Rooney family is grieving the passing of Matthew,” stated the Steelers, confirming his demise.

Documents acquired by Daily Mail reveal that Rooney bought the East Hampton property in 2020. The white wooden house is estimated to be worth $3.48 million.

A home with four bedrooms and five bathrooms covers an area of 2,813 square feet and includes a beautifully designed garden, an external swimming pool, and a contemporary farm-style architecture.

Born in Meadowbrook,
Pennsylvania
Rooney was the child of JoAnn Wallace Rooney and John J. Rooney, who previously held a 16 percent ownership interest in the Steelers until they sold the majority of their shares in 2009.

He obtained a degree from New York University and pursued a master’s at Columbia prior to dividing his time between New York and
Los Angeles
.

In subsequent years, he resided in Brooklyn Heights, East Hampton, and West Palm Beach.

His death notice referred to him as “a writer and painter, an enthusiast for literature, deeply devoted to ballet and operas,” highlighting that his “humor, charisma, and appreciation for style made him one of the final genuine Dandies and a real connoisseur of life.”

Rooney wasn’t merely present at events — he actively backed them. He held the position of vice chairman within the New York City Ballet’s group of donors and was a member of the Metropolitan Opera’s governing board.

Fashion designer Joshua Kamei also recalled his influence outside of performances: “I was sorry to learn about the death of Matthew Rooney. Although we weren’t close friends, he was consistently a warm, recognizable presence at the ballet—someone who had a unique ability to make people feel welcomed and appreciated.”

He leaves behind his mother, four brothers and sisters, 15 nieces and nephews, and 18 grandchildren of nieces and nephews.

A memorial service and closed burial ceremony are scheduled to occur in Pennsylvania on August 21.

The Rooney family has been connected with football since 1933, when Art Rooney Sr., known as “The Chief,” established the Steelers. He bought the team for only $2,500.

He headed the group until he passed away in 1988, handing over leadership to his son Dan, who continued as president until 2002.

Currently, the renowned series is managed by Matthew’s cousin, Art Rooney II, who carries forward the family’s tradition in the NFL.

The dynasty also connects Matthew to Hollywood. His family members
feature actresses Rooney Mara and Kate Mara, whose father comes from the lineage of New York Giants co-founder Timothy Mara – and whose mother is affiliated with the Rooney family.

The renowned siblings frequently discuss their upbringing where football elite status meets the world of showbiz — a lineage linking two of the NFL’s greatest teams with two of Hollywood’s most well-known personalities.

Read more

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