John J. O'Neill 1848-1907

ONEILL, KANE

Posted By: Joe Conroy (email)
Date: 7/6/2010 at 20:27:27

The Democrat
Emmetsburg, Iowa
1 May 1907
Page 4

J. J. O'Neill Dead

John J. O'Neill, who lived in the northeast part of town, died rather unexpectedly last Saturday morning about two o'clock. He had not been feeling well for some time. The previous Saturday he came down town and in returning home he became so week that he had to be carried the remainder of the distance. It was thought that he could not live until morning, but in a day or two he rallied and was able to be about the house. Friday evening he retired, but not feeling so well as usual. Mrs. O'Neill was sleeping in room with him and about two o'clock when his son Henry arose to give him his medicine he found him lifeless. He had apparently passed away without a struggle.

The funeral was held Monday. Services were conducted at St. Thomas church, Father McNerney officiating. The burial was in St. John's cemetery. Many old friends and neighbors came from Graettinger to attend. The pall bearers were P. H. Donlon, M. Hester, James F. Conway, Edward Ryan, Wm. Jackman, and Edward McNally.

The deceased was born in the county of Sligo, Ireland, June 15, 1848. He came to the United States in 1881. About twenty years ago he became a resident of Palo Alto. On July 20, 1886, he was married to Miss Elizabeh, daughter of John Kane, of Walnut township. Eight children were born to them -- four sons and four daughters. All are living as is also Mrs. O'Neill. Two brothers of the deceased are living in Ireland. Mr. O'Neill spent some time in Cleveland, Ohio, and in Chicago before coming to Emmetsburg and he was in Alaska from 1897 to 1899.

Mr. O'Neill was a genial man and had many friends. He was bright and was a careful reader. He was well posted on current affairs. He was economical and was fairly prosperous. Those who had dealings with him found him honest and prompt in meeting his obligations. The wife, sons and daughters and other relatives have the sympathy of all in their sorrow.