Obituary of John O'Neill

August 21, 1930 - Calgary, Alberta
March 30, 2022 - Calgary, Alberta

On Wednesday, March 30, 2022 S/Sgt (Ret) John “Jack” O’Neill passed away peacefully to reunite with his beloved wife Marilyn, his mom and dad and his lifelong friend Insp (Ret) Wilson D. McQueen, who he loved to share memories of growing up in Calgary and their careers with the Calgary Police Service.

Born on his mother’s birthday August 21, 1930 Jack was the only child of John and Margaret O’Neill.  Jack grew up surrounded by his loving parents, grandmother and his adoring aunt Katie and uncle Harry. As a promising baseball pitcher Jack was invited to attend the “then” Brooklyn Dodgers training camp. Due to the untimely passing of his father, his grandmother and his beloved uncle Harry, Jack was left to care for his mom and aunt Katie. Needless to say, his life took a totally different direction.

In 1956, Jack joined the Calgary Police Service and was a proud and devoted member of the force for 25 years. It was during his years in the Traffic Division that he met his future wife Marilyn at the General Hospital where she worked in Emergency as an RN. Jack and Marilyn were married on May 7, 1960 and enjoyed 48 years of marriage. Jack was always proud to be one of the first AMA School Patrollers in 1939. Over the years he continued his affiliation with AMA, working as an in-car driver trainer and in-class instructor. He had many happy memories as a police officer working with the school patrols, the Safety Round-Up Band and singers. Special thanks to our AMA family, past and present, for their love and support during this difficult time.

In 1980, Jack had the honor of becoming the first NHL Security Representative for the Calgary Flames, a position he held for 22 wonderful years. Although the 1989 Stanley Cup win was a highlight, Jack always believed the Flames were number one regardless of the season. Jack also enjoyed his work at Heritage Park in security as well as an interpreter at the NWMP exhibit.

Left to celebrate a life well lived are his two daughters, Karen (Lindsay) Marshall and Susanne (Vern) Lee; his three grandchildren Tyler, Jaq, and Kade; his loving family in St. Albert, Jack and Mary O’Neill; and family. Jack will also be missed by his many friends and neighbors in Glamorgan, a community that he was very proud to be a part of.

Our heartfelt gratitude to the kindest and most loving caregivers at Cedars Villa, Maple Unit, Jack loved and appreciated you all. A private family service is currently being planned and a Celebration of Jack’s Life will be announced at a later date. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed here.

May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sunshine warm upon your face;
The rains fall soft upon your fields
And, until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Traditional Gaelic Blessing

If friends so desire a donation in Jack’s name to the Calgary Humane Society www.calgaryhumane.ca would be greatly appreciated. 

In living memory of John O’Neill, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area.