Thomas Hugh O'Neill

Thomas “Tom” Hugh O’Neill, 84, of St. Joseph, passed away, Monday, July 29, 2019 at his home. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 P.M., on Friday, August 23, 2019 at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, with Pastor Steve Hartten officiating. Friends may visit with the family August 23, 2019, from 1:00 P.M. till time of service at the funeral home. Burial will take place at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Benton Harbor American Legion Post # 105 and Caring Circle Hospice. Those wishing to sign Tom’s guest book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Tom was born September 12, 1934 in Benton Harbor to Daniel and Mary Ellen (Greene) O’Neill. He graduated from Western Michigan University with his Bachelors of Arts in Education and continued his education, receiving his Master’s degree in Education with an emphasis in history. On March 16, 1963, he married Margaret Ogata at Trinity Lutheran in St. Joseph. Tom retired from St. Joseph High School after 30+ years of teaching German and History. Tom loved the water and spent many hours on his boat, the Silverheels. He also was a member of the Berrien County Sheriff Department Marine Division, a retired US Army Reservist and an active member of the US Power Squadron. He was an Eagle Scout and was very proud when his grandson Kyle followed in his footsteps to also become an Eagle Scout. Tom was a member of the DANK and the American Legion Post #105 in Benton Harbor. He was known for his dry sense of humor and caring man who cherished his time spent with family. Tom is survived by his wife Margaret; his son, Daniel (Stephanie) O’Neill; daughters, Kathleen (Greg) Payne, Patrice (Keith) McCoy; step children; Charles Ogata, Kent (Katrina) Ogata; sister, Patricia Keller; 12 grandchildren and 8 Great grandchildren. Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Daniel O’Neill and John O’Neill; sister Mary Jane Kotyuk. Special acknowledgment to his Caring Circle team, who took such wonderful care of him during his time of need.