Captain O’Neill was born in Newport, Rhode Island and lived in San Diego County for many years. He served in the Navy for 38 years, advancing through the ranks from seaman recruit to Captain. He had six commands at sea over the years and was also Commanding Officer of the San Diego Fleet Training Center from 1972-74. He was a Pearl Harbor survivor (U.S.S. West Virginia BB 48), a member of the assault force which struck Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944, and was an active combatant in the Korean and Vietnam conflicts. His many decorations included four Legions of Merit and two Bronze Stars.
After retirement from the service, Captain O’Neill received a BA in Public Administration from San Diego State University and then served eight years on the Chula Vista Planning Commission.
He was a member of Chula Vista Elk’s Lodge 2011, the San Diego Seniors Golf Association and the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association.
He was predeceased in 2007 by Bertha Ellen, his wife of 65 years. Survivors include his son John W Jr. and wife Susie of La Jolla, daughters Peggy of Chula Vista and Norah of Seattle, WA, four grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Cremation is planned with ashes inurned in the Columbarium at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery on April 25th at 12:00pm. The family suggests, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Sharp Hospice Care.
Arrangements under the direction of Glen Abbey Mortuary, Bonita, CA.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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