Thomas Robert O'Neil's Obituary
Thomas Robert O’Neil, 81, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at his home.
He was born June 19, 1944, at home in Morley, Michigan, the son of John and Mary (Buchanan) O’Neil. He graduated from Morley-Stanwood High School in 1962. On July 23, 1966, he married Katherine Moore, and together they made their home in the Stanwood area, where they built a life and raised their family.
Tom worked as a heavy equipment operator for Mecosta County for 16 years, and also drove semi-trucks. He was a dedicated public servant and community member, volunteering as a firefighter with the Mecosta Township Fire Department for 50 years. Tom was also served in the National Guard and was a member of the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Posse, a Mecosta Township trustee, and was currently serving as a Mecosta County Commissioner.
He enjoyed working on his farm, raising cattle, and planting crops. Tom also loved hunting and bowling, a pastime he enjoyed for more than 60 years, often sharing the experience with his grandchildren. He was known for being stubborn and deeply committed—if he said he was going to do something, he did it. He was loyal, hardworking, and always willing to lend a hand to others, though he rarely asked for help himself.
Tom is survived by his loving wife of nearly 60 years, Katherine; his children, Robert (Patti) O’Neil, David (Barb) O’Neil, Shari O’Neil, and Diana (Steve) Cook; his grandchildren, Megan, Justin, Abby (Travis), Johnny, Jake, Emily, Jordan, and Katie; and one great-grandchild on the way. He is also survived by his brother, Ken (Marti) O’Neil; his sisters, Linda Vredenburg and Bonnie Thebo; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Gary O’Neil.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Friends may greet the family on Tuesday, March 10, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home and again beginning at 10 a.m. on Wednesday prior to the service. Thomas will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery in Stanwood.
Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Mecosta Township Fire Department or the Green Country Church in Morley, MI.
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