Aileen Cloonan

Aileen Cloonan was born on March 24, 1923, in Alliance, Ohio. She was the youngest of four children born to Sam and Rose (Cohen) Lasse. She passed away in Indianapolis, Indiana, on August 3, 2025, at the age of 102.

After graduating from Mount Union College and training as a physical therapist at the Cleveland Clinic, Aileen honorably served her country in the U.S. Army at the end of World War II (1945-48), providing essential care to soldiers returning from the war. Following her military service, she pursued further education in physical therapy at Stanford University. Aileen’s career continued as the Director of Rehabilitation Services at Colonial Crest, later Beverly Enterprises, where she would spend the rest of her career.

Aileen was a devoted working mother during a time when such a path was not common. She instilled in her children the values of independence and strength. She will be lovingly remembered for her authenticity and pragmatism. Her childhood during the Great Depression shaped her into someone both practical and generous, able to stretch what she had while sharing freely.

A lifelong learner, Aileen sought knowledge and experiences around the globe. Her favorite destinations included Greece, China, Russia, South Africa, Ireland, and Panama. Closer to home, she found adventure through a local book club, bridge clubs, and playing Scrabble. As a dedicated member of the Indianapolis Hiking Club and PrimeLife Enrichment, she maintained an active lifestyle, enjoying water aerobics well into her 90s.

Aileen was preceded in passing by her husband, Theodore Cloonan in 1979; two sisters, and one brother. Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Leslie Cloonan and Holly Cloonan; grandchildren, Gregory, Eli, and Jana; and great-grandchildren, Aria, Rio, Maxine, and Sam. Aileen, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held at All Souls Unitarian Church with a reception to follow, in October (check this site for details, beginning in mid-September). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Natural Resources Defense Council or James Whitcomb Riley Memorial Association to reflect her generous spirit.