Obituary of Robert Edward O'Neil

Robert Edward “Buck” O’Neil, 92, passed away at Sundale Nursing Home on January 25, 2017. He was born on May 5, 1924 in Richard, WV the son of the late Edward H. and Bessie Clise O’Neil. Buck was a graduate of Morgantown High School and in 1942, he attended WVU for a year until being called to the service in 1943. Buck served in the Army Air Corps as an Air Cadet and graduated as a B-24 bomber pilot. After discharge, he worked for Christopher Coal Company as resident engineer for Humphrey Mine. In 1970 he went with MSHA as a federal mine inspector and retired in 1987. He was a member of The First Baptist Church. He also was a member of the #411 Elks club where he held the office of Exalted Ruler. Buck was also an avid golfer and a member of the Pines. In his free time, he coached youth baseball and was an enthusiastic hunter and fisherman. As an avid painter, he showed his artistic side. He was also a huge Mountaineer fan, having held season tickets for many years. Buck is survived by his wife of 74 years, Betty G. Sweitzer O’Neil; his son, Jeffery B. O’Neil (Sandra) FL; grandsons, Jeffery L. O’Neil (Beth) of Morgantown and Robert S. O’Neil (Jen) SC; great-grandchildren, Marline and Henrik Clear of Erbach, Germany. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by a daughter, Kathy Lynn Gomez O’Neil, FL; grandson, Michael Clear, New Orleans, LA; and sister Evelyn “Babe” Curry of Morgantown. In accordance with the family’s wishes cremation services will be provided by Hastings Funeral Home. Friends and family will be received at Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce St. Morgantown, on Monday January 30th, from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Dr. James M. Leonard officiating. A private family inurnment will take place at Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to the First Baptist Church 432 High St, Morgantown, WV 26505. Send condolences online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com.