Eugene Mark O'Neill

Eugene was born on March 28, 1937, in Champaign, IL to John and Marjorie O'Neill. He attended Holy Cross Elementary School and Dr. Howard Elementary School, followed by Champaign Junior High and Champaign Senior High School, graduating in 1956. He continued his education at the University of Illinois and General Motors Institute before being drafted into the United States Navy. He was honorably discharged in 1958 and returned to Champaign.

After returning home, Gene began farming in Champaign and Vermilion Counties. He continued to live and expand his farmland for approximately 50 years before retiring to Florida and turning the farming operation over to his son, Scott.

Gene had a natural talent for fixing almost anything, a skill that served him well throughout his years in farming. Never one to be idle, he also operated a semi-trucking business. After retiring to Florida, Gene purchased rental homes and continued to put his mechanical and handyman skills to work, doing much of the maintenance himself. He took pride in keeping everything working properly and in good order.

Gene had a great love of sports and the outdoors. Water skiing was his greatest passion, while boating and tennis were also favorite activities that he enjoyed in both Illinois and Florida.

Gene was known for his great sense of humor, quick wit, and generous nature. He had a way of bringing humor and warmth to those around him and will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, independence, resourcefulness, and love for his family.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, John and Marjorie O’Neill, and his older brother, Gerald.

He is survived by his children, Scott (Sammi) of Fithian, Illinois; Janine (Michael Bramlett) of Aurora, Colorado; Todd (Anne) of Bloomington, Illinois; and Kirk; his brother, Richard of Champaign; grandsons Aaron and Bradley (Sarah Price); and great-grandson Axel.

Gene was married to Janet Marin (Bloomquist) on September 5, 1958. Janet was the mother of their four children, Scott, Janine, Todd, and Robin. He later married Sandra E. Middleton on August 2, 1968. He married Peggy Anderson (Kurzweg) on February 10, 2023.

Gene’s life was defined by hard work, family, adventure, and a willingness to take on whatever needed to be done. His quick wit, generous heart, and unmistakable sense of humor will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.

Visitation will be held at St. Timothy Catholic Church, 17512 Lakeshore Rd, Lutz, FL 33558, US, on September 30, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by the Funeral Service at the same location from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.