Patrick E. O'Neill

June 12, 1920 - June 30, 2015

Patrick E. O’Neill, 95, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2015, surrounded by loved ones at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

Pat was born June 12, 1920, to Thomas and Mary O’Neill north of Wall, S.D. He graduated from Wall High School in 1938 and joined the U.S. Navy in 1939, serving until 1945 as a Chief Warrant Electrician. His work history includes working as an electrician for 21 years and then owner/operator of Rushmore Marine for 13 years. He continued his entrepreneurial spirit as a realtor and then owner/operator of Rushmore Solar/Energy Systems.

Pat’s passion throughout his adult life was his career with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, which spans more than 65 years of membership. He served as the Rapid City VFW Post 1273 Commander in 1950-1951 and 1954-1955; South Dakota VFW Department Commander 2011-2012; as well as several national appointments, and is recognized as the oldest State Commander to date. Among his life memberships are: American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Elks Lodge, USS Savannah Association, USS Bremerton Association, US Navy Cruiser’s Association, and a member of the Rapid City Moose Lodge.

He was presently serving as the Chairman of the Department of South Dakota Memorial Park and Chapel. As a proud World War II Veteran, he passionately shared his patriotic spirit, knowledge and history as a role-model and philanthropist. His official Commendations include: American Theatre-One Star, European Theatre-Four Stars, Atlantic Operation-Good Conduct, and WWII Victory Medals and Personal Commendation Letter.

He leaves behind a grateful family that includes his wife of 16 years, Maxine "Mickie"; and his children: Eileen O’Neill, David O’Neill, Keith O’Neill, Kathy O’Neill Zion, Kent O’Neill, Karen O’Neill (Butch Rick), Konnie Sorensen (Dan), and Kelli Heidel (Ron); 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; sisters, Marilyn Cummings and Kathleen Shull; as well as extended family and friends throughout the world.

Funeral services were held Saturday, July 4, 2015, at the Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home, with a gathering immediately following at the VFW Post 1273 at 420 Main St.

Burial was held Monday, July 6, 2015, at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.

Memorials have been established with the VFW Post 1273 for the Voice of Democracy Scholarship Fund, which promotes patriotism in our youth, and the South Dakota Memorial Park and Chapel at the Black Hills National Cemetery.

The Pioneer Review

221 E. Oak Street
Philip, SD 57567
Telephone: (605) 859-2516
E Mail: ads@pioneer-review.com

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