Leonard Patrick O'Neill

1951 - 2024

Leonard O’Neill, 72, of Pacific Grove, California, passed peacefully on April 1, 2024, with his loving family by his side.

Leonard was a lover of laughter, father of fearlessness, doer of dreams, limitless in his thinking, fierce family man, adventurous, spiritual, maker of memories, model of a man.

Len was born November 3, 1951, to Thomas and Bridget (McGrath) O’Neill in Hartford, Connecticut. He is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Melanie; and his cherished children, Erin, Conor and Kate. In addition, he leaves his brother, Thomas “Brian” O’Neill and Nancy Walts; sister- in-law, Lise O’Neill; brother-in-law, Bill DuPaul and wife, Jaye; sister-in-law, Pam DuPaul and David Jenkins; numerous nieces and nephews, friends and neighbors. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Joan Berube, and his brother, Desmond O’Neill.

For more than 30 years, Leonard served as the secretary-treasurer of UNITE HERE Local 483, where he tirelessly championed social justice and equality for culinary workers and their families. His commitment extended beyond local boundaries, as he also contributed his expertise to the International Pension Fund. An adept organizer, Leonard possessed an innate understanding of what was right and worked tirelessly to make it a reality. His impact reached far and wide, leaving a lasting mark on the lives of those he encountered.

Leonard was a beloved storyteller and a children’s author. He had a passion for theater and music. He acted in community performances and worked as an extra in several big screen productions. He was also an avid gardener and an amazing prankster. Many Pacific Grove children will remember “Coach Len” and

the nurturing and fun team environment that he created. Snacks were important — winning was secondary.

Len was compassionate and caring for those in need. He could talk with ease and had a way of making people feel seen, understood and validated. What others felt as their weakness, Len saw as their potential. He gave his time and wisdom freely and had the remarkable ability to bring out out the best in people. He could connect with all types of people — from the unhoused to U.S. presidents.

Len was known to say, “I am a rich man. I have faith and a wonderful family. I live in the place of my dreams. I’m part of a community and a career that matters.”

Some might think that the Luck of the Irish ran out for Len on April 1, 2024, BUT not true. The memory of Leonard O’Neill will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, and in those who unknowingly benefited from his time on earth.

Once again, Leonard Patrick O’Neill did life on his own terms and exited with an Irish Goodbye.

Donations can be made to the ALS Network, P.O. Box 7082, Woodland Hills, CA 91365 — Leonard O’Neill of Pacific Grove, CA should be noted.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.