Friends, family and fellow soldiers gathered at a Catholic church in Des Moines today for the funeral of 37-year-old Master Sergeant Scott Carney of Ankeny. Carney died in a vehicle accident in Afghanistan August 24th while serving with the Iowa National Guard.
Father Larry Hoffman of Saint Theresa’s Catholic Church talked about God’s ability to create things, and how he created Carney. Hoffman said God had many ways of continuing to create Carney as he grew.
Hoffman says there was even some creation in reverse, as Carney’s work as a meat cutter let him know it was not what God had in mind for him. The priest says Carney underwent changes physically and as a person after joining the Army. He says Carney worked with all kinds of people and situations and that further refined how God was creating Carney. Hoffman says the refinement took another turn as Carney left the Army and took a full-time job with the Iowa National Guard in December of 2000.
Hoffman says the creation of Carney went on to include, his faith, his family, and work with others during his tour of duty in Afghanistan. Hoffman says even though God was not yet finished with his creating, Scott Carney had a strong influence on the soldiers he served with, his family, friends, as they new of his caring, giving and loving nature.
Hoffman says because of Carney’s strong faith, God with continue his creation as Carney moves into heaven. Carney was a member of the Iowa Army National Guard’s second brigade combat team of the 34th infantry. He leaves behind his wife Jeni, and twin sons Jacob and Justin.