John Edward O'Neill

O'Neill, John Edward

of Jackson, peacefully passed away with his wife of 71 years at his side on Friday, March 11, 2022 at the age of 91 years. He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed. John is survived by his wife, Anita (Deaver); sons, Kevin (Kim), Edward (Anne), Joseph (Elaine), Peter (Mary) and daughters, Margaret and Susan O'Neill-Cook (Clare), 13 grandchildren, and 22 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents (Edward and Bernice), sisters, Rosemary Daly (Bing), Sheila Wollett (Gale) and brothers Phillip (Dee), Gerald (Elaine), and David (Kathleen).

He was a bricklayer for 44 plus years whose many projects can be seen around the city. He built his home and cottage. He kept his kids' homes in good repair. For fun, he was a talented carpenter and our homes are filled with many beautiful pieces he made. He loved going to his cottage in Kingsbridge, Ontario. So many memories were made on the Canadian shores of Lake Huron.

He enriched the lives of everyone who knew him. John was an extrovert. He drew energy from simple everyday interactions. His restaurant server, nurse or barber could tell he cared. He knew everyone's name. If you were fortunate enough to be sitting near him in a public place, you became his friend—you had no choice! He was the center of hundreds of family get-togethers. All his children are so thankful that his grandchildren got to know their grandad and he had a special relationship with each of them.

John offered his talents to multiple organizations; as a guide at the Dahlem Nature Center, Inner-City Reading, the emergency room at Foote Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, and the Astronomy Club at Sharp Park Museum using telescopes he had built. Over the years he volunteered at St. John's Catholic Church and School for bingo to various rebuilding projects.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of John's life will take place on Saturday, April 9, 2022 at 11:00 AM at the Desnoyer Funeral Home, 204 N. Blackstone St., Jackson, MI 49201. Reverend Joseph O'Neill and Father Jim Shaver will officiate. Prior to the ceremony, the family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests you consider a donation to David's Promise - Compassionate Ministries of Jackson County or another charity of your choice.

Desnoyer Funeral Home
Family Owned For 132 Years