Michael O'Neil

Michael Owen O’Neil, age 72, passed away Monday, September 25th at Hartford Hospital, after an extended illness.

Born March 30, 1945 in Torrington, Connecticut, Michael was the son of Gertrude Durant Wall and Edmund Wall, and of Owen “Red” O’Neil.

Michael was a graduate of Torrington High School Class of ‘64, Northwestern Connecticut Community College, Central Connecticut State College, and Paier School of Art.

From the time he was ten years old with his first paper route, through decades running the family business, Besse’s Paint, followed by years as a local Zoning Enforcement Officer, he was committed to the community. He volunteered as a Boy Scout leader, was a life member of the Goshen Volunteer Fire Department, was a trustee of the Goshen Congregational Church, and served as Chairman of the Board of Education for Region 6.

Mike was an avid sailor, skier, and world traveler, all with his childhood sweetheart, his wife, Charlene (Besse) O’Neil. Mike is survived by his wife, his daughters Katrina (O’Neil) Weckenbrock of Missoula, Montana, and Meegan O’Neil, of Beverly, Massachusetts, and his grandchildren Mason, and Autumn, Owen. He is also survived by his siblings Kathleen (O’Neil) Kassner, Sheila (Wall) Pekrul, and Edmund “Duke” Wall, and many loving nieces and nephews.

Mike final request to all was: “Please remember me with a story and a laugh”. Honoring this spirit, calling hours will be at Phalen Funeral Home, Thursday, September 28, 5-7pm, and a “Celebration of Life” will be held at Chatterley’s Banquet Facility 371 Pinewoods Rd  Torrington on Friday, September 29, 1-4pm. Services and burial will be private.