Matthew Rooney, grandson of Steelers founder Art Rooney, dead at 51

Matthew “Dutch” Rooney, grandson of Pittsburgh Steelers founding owner Art Rooney, has died.

An obituary says he died Aug. 15 at his home in East Hampton, New York. He was 51.

Steelers spokesman Burt Lauten confirmed his death to TribLive and said the Rooney family is mourning his loss.

A cause of death has not been released.

Rooney was the son of JoAnn and John Rooney, a minority shareholder of the Steelers until he sold most of his 16% stake in 2009. The Steelers’ current owner, Art Rooney II, is his cousin.

Despite his family’s black and gold ties, Matthew Rooney did not appear to have much involvement with the Steelers, and his obituary made no mention of living in Western Pennsylvania.

Instead, he made a name for himself as a supporter of the arts, holding prominent roles at multiple New York City institutions.

He was the vice chair of the Allegro Circle, a donor program for the New York City Ballet where packages can run $100,000 or more. Additionally, he served on the board of directors for the Metropolitan Opera of New York.

“Matthew’s wit, charm and love of fashion made him one of life’s last true Dandies and an authentic Bon Vivant,” his obituary said.

Matthew Rooney graduated from New York University with a bachelor’s degree before obtaining his master’s from Columbia University.

He lived between New York and Los Angeles before settling in an East Hampton home he called “Belle Reve,” a French phrase that literally translates to “beautiful dream.” The Daily Mail reported the property is worth $3.5 million and spans 2,800 square feet.

Matthew Rooney is survived by his mother, four older siblings, 15 nieces and nephews and 18 great nieces and nephews.

A funeral mass was held Thursday at St. Helena Catholic Church in Montgomery County. He is being buried at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Philadelphia.