James R. "Dick" O'Neil

Went home to our Lord April 4, 2012. Born November 11, 1927 in Longview, WA, the only child of James R. and Marguerite O'Neil. Graduated from Kelso High in 1946 then served in the Navy for 2 years. He married the love of his life, Jacklyn (Jackie) Willard in 1972. He is survived by his wife of the last 40 years, daughter Kareen Smith and son Darrell Willard, all of Spokane Valley as well as 7 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by both parents and one daughter, DeLynn Zemzars. His 2nd love in life was music. He became the drummer for the Billy Tipton Trio in 1951. He managed several clubs including the Spokane Valley Eagles and the Spokane Valley Elks of which he was a lifetime member. He co-managed the Camlu Retirement Apt's with Jackie for 12 years and was a police officer in Medical Lake for 6 years. Dick loved to bowl and make funny cards for his friends and family. He became the handyman to many of the residents at River Rose Mobile Home Park. He wanted to be remembered as the guy who would do anything or give anything to anyone "as long as he liked them". His family and friends will especially miss his dry Irish humor. Services will be held Friday April 13, 2012 at 2:00pm At Thornhill Valley Chapel 1400 S. Pines Rd. Spokane Valley, WA 99206