Lois was born at home in Madison County, IL the daughter of Bryan and Hannah (Engelke) O’Neill. She graduated from Madison Illinois High School where she achieved first chair trumpet in the band. She also played the drums during football season because the drummer was on the football team.
She married Joseph Hassler Jr in Springfield, November 27, 1954, and he survives. Also surviving are her three children: Pamela Whitehead of Springfield, Joseph (Kathryn) Hassler III of Panama City, FL and Michael Hassler of Taylorville, IL, her grandchildren: James (Andria) Whitehead and Katie Whitehead both of Springfield, Jessica Hassler and Kaci (Lucas) Tucker both of Florida, six great grandchildren: Malcolm, Abbott, Joseph Trent, Jacob, Hudson and Nolan, a sister, Carol Meehan of Granite City, IL and her best friend and canine companion, Charlie.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her son-in-law, Don Whitehead, four brothers, Harold, Robert, Russell, and Ralph O’Neill, three sisters, Betty Pulley, Dorothy Smith and Mildred Wigginton Joseph Hassler IV and Grant Barisano. .
Lois was a member of First Congregational Church in Springfield and served as a trustee. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, bowling, and spending time with her family.
A committal service will be held in the chapel of Calvary Catholic Cemetery 2910 S. State Route 157, Edwardsville, IL on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 10:00 am. Chaplain Jeff Harter will officiate. A memorial gathering will be later on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 2:00 pm until the time of a memorial service at 3:00 pm in the Chapel at Concordia Village 4101 W. Iles Ave. Springfield, IL with Chaplain Jeff Harter and Rev. Dan Dexter officiating.
Those who wish may direct memorial contributions in Lois’ name to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children 4400 Clayton Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West. 217-544-5424
