Rene Eugene Finney's Obituary
Rene Eugene Finney was born in Springfield, Massachusetts on May 1, 1947 and passed away on April 18, 2017 in Largo, Florida.
Although he grew up in Massachusetts, finishing high school there and going to college, he also spent some time living in Louisiana. He returned home, fell in love with and eventually married Barbara Butler on August 9, 1975. Throughout his life, he worked many jobs to support his family. For many years, he was a machinist for Hamilton Standard. After moving to New Mexico with his family, he opened a restaurant, worked in manufacturing and eventually became a Black Jack dealer. He retired after moving to Largo, Florida with Barbara.
Rene loved his wife, Barbara with all of his heart. They remained best friends until the end. He was a devoted father and grandfather and he celebrated the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. He had a reputation for being a bit gruff but underneath his tough exterior was a gentle and loving soul. He also had a great sense of humor and his laughter was contagious. Despite all of the hardships he faced in his life, he tried his best to remain positive and kept a sense of humor about those things that he could. He was a role model for all of his children and grandchildren.
Besides spending time with family, Rene enjoyed traveling with Barbara. He was an avid New England Patriots fan, long after he moved away from Massachusetts. He loved good food and cooking, especially New Mexican food. He was a reader of Tom Clancy novels. He could start up a conversation with anyone about anything, but especially loved lively political discussions. Rene was never afraid to give you a piece of his mind on a topic!
He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 42 years, Barbara (Butler) Finney; his son, David Finney and daughter-in-law Kelly MacDonald; daughter, Bridgett and son-in-law Cody Paul; and son Jonathon and daughter-in-law Kathy Finney; and his beloved grandchildren: Carson Finney, Hazel Paul, Dahlia Finney, Juniper Finney and Odessa Paul. He is also survived by his brother Howie Courtney and sister Judy Bleau. In addition are the numerous cousins, nieces and nephews he cherished. He was preceded in death by his mother, Genevieve Courtney; brother, Steve Courtney; and sister, Joanne Moquin.
There is no funeral planned at this time.
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