Joseph Edward O’Neill

Joseph Edward O’Neill, age 70, of Wyoming, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 9, 2020, surrounded by his loving wife and children. Forever a farm boy at heart, Joe grew up in a lively household in Philo, Illinois, where he was the third sibling among five brothers and one sister. He took immense pride in his Irish heritage and his upbringing in the close-knit town where the surname O’Neill is still known fondly. Joe met the girl who would become the love of his life in eighth grade. Though they met just briefly at a Catholic school dance, Kathleen “Kathy” Rubenacker would find him three years later at a Philo festival reintroducing herself and igniting a love that spanned five decades including 47 years of marriage. Joe and Kathy married June 23, 1973 and went on to set an example of love and commitment others found inspiring. Kathy donated a kidney to Joe five years ago, giving him the gift of health for cherished years he would not otherwise have had. Joe had a long and successful career as a lumber broker, training many young people including two sons in different facets of the industry. His job took him to Wisconsin, Oregon and finally Michigan, where he would stay for more than 40 years, always enjoying the seasons, lakes and snowfall. Joe loved a good conversation on history, current events and myriad other topics. He was a straight-shooter and loyal, generous friend with a genuine heart and authentic nature. Joe loved to golf, cross-country ski, relax at his cottage on Gun Lake, garden, treat himself to dessert and solve Jumble puzzles with Kathy. He was a devoted member of the Wyoming Moose Lodge #763, where he spent countless hours with his friends and created a community garden that lasted several years. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene O’Neill and Marie (Manion) O’Neill, and his brother, Daniel O’Neill. He leaves behind his wife Kathleen (Rubenacker) O’Neill and brothers Patrick O’Neill, Timothy O’Neill, Dennis O’Neill and Kevin O’Neill and his sister Sandra Timko; his children Rory O’Neill (Cindy Daconto), Erin “Baby doll” Albanese (Ignazio Albanese), Casey O’Neill (Ima) and Darby O’Neill; five grandchildren, Rocco Albanese, Lena Albanese, Shamus O’Neill, Soleil Salamanca-O’Neill, Norah O’Neill and one on the way. A private Mass of Christian burial for family only will be held at Holy Name of Jesus Church with a public memorial to be scheduled in the future when public health concerns ease. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Holy Name of Jesus Church Poor Fund, 1630 Godfrey Ave. SW, Wyoming, MI 49509. Please share memories and photos of Joe at https://www.memories.net/page/7027/joseph-e-o-neill.