MCFARLAND - Dr. Luis I. Moroney Gomez, 86, passed away peacefully at home in McFarland, Wis., surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 1, 1939, in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua, Luis was the cherished son of Matilde Gomez and Luis Moroney. After his father's early passing, Luis was lovingly raised by his stepfather, Alfredo Peralta, whose steady guidance and nurturing presence shaped the man he would become.

Growing up on Nicaragua’s Caribbean coast, Luis rose from humble beginnings to lead a life grounded in service, education, and unwavering devotion to others. A gifted scholar-athlete, he earned a full scholarship to study and play basketball at the Instituto Nacional Central Ramírez Goyena. There, he proudly represented his country as a member of the Nicaraguan national basketball team, where he earned the nickname “El Negro Moroney.” After graduating, he married his elementary school sweetheart, Maritza, and pursued his doctorate in oral surgery.

Luis’s life was defined by pride in his heritage and an unwavering commitment to community. He opened a dental clinic in his hometown, serving his community with compassion and skill. He founded Puerto Cabezas’ first fire department and university extension and served as deputy mayor. Known affectionately as “profesor,” Luis was a passionate educator who left a lasting impression on generations of students. A civic leader, he was active in organizations including the Lions Club International, Partners of the Americas, the Partido Liberal de Nicaragua, and a Doric Lodge No. 356 member.

In July 1978, amid the violence of Nicaragua’s civil war and under threat of personal persecution, Luis made the courageous decision to flee the country to protect his young family. With the help of many from the Village of McFarland, he arrived in the United States and spent six difficult months working to reunite his loved ones-a chapter he often described as the most challenging of his life. His journey was marked by resilience, the unwavering love for his family, and deep faith in God.

Luis was preceded in death by his father, mother, stepfather, brother, Fernando, and sister, Audeli. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Maritza Moroney Moody, whom he tenderly called “Amor” or “Wife.” Together, they raised seven children, Marta E. Moroney, Vidal M. Moroney (Lidia), Yovira M. Moroney, Maritza G. Moroney, Donney K.M. Moroney, Luis A. Moroney (Katie) and Winston R. Moroney (Paulina). He was also a father figure to Centuriano Knight, Ines Mendez, and Dyanne Moody. Luis leaves behind grandchildren, Joselyn Moroney, Michael J. Loney (Kat), Yevonessa M. Moroney and Yasmin M. Moroney; numerous nieces and nephews; and his grandpup, Nalita. He embraced the roles of papa, daddy, hijo, tío, and abuelo with immense pride and joy.

Dr. Moroney’s legacy is one of wisdom, strength, and generosity. He will be remembered for his warmth, humor, boisterous laughter, steadfast values, and the enduring love he shared so freely with his family and community.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at CHRIST THE KING CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5306 Main St., McFarland, on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11 a.m. Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Saturday. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Dr. Luis Ignacio Moroney Gomez

February 01, 1939 - May 06, 2025

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