Joseph Michael O’Neill, Sr.

Joseph Michael O’Neill Sr. (Mike), 74 of Hockessin DE, formerly of Yorklyn, DE, died February 25, 2017 peacefully surrounded by his loving family. He attended Yorklyn Elementary school and graduated from Salesianum in 1960. He retired from the VA hospital in Elsmere in 1997, after 30 years as a maintenance supervisor. He was predeceased by his parents Arthur W. O’Neill and Catherine Mildred McGovern O’Neill. Mike cherished spending time with his family and friends. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, coaching baseball, the beach, country-western music and time spent in the Pennsylvania mountains. Mike was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was unapologetically himself and full of life with a colorful story or joke to tell. He lived life on his own terms, and he was definitely one of a kind.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Eleanor Malin O’Neill. He is also survived by his three sons: Joseph Michael O’Neill Jr. (Tracey), Patrick W. O’Neill (Lidia), Timothy B. O’Neill (Michelle), and his six grandchildren, who were the apples of his eye, Caitlin E., Shannon L., Tyler A., Casey A., Jamie L. and Brady C. As well as brothers-in-law Billy Malin (Nancy), Dickie Malin (Rhonda), cousins Dyanne Gerhart (Dave), Jerre Garrett, and numerous nephews and cousins. He was fortunate to have, as a lifelong best friend, Donnie Cazier Sr.