Patrick "Pat" Joseph O'Neill, Jr. of Palos Park, IL passed away at the age of 74 on Saturday, October 22, 2022. Pat was a devoted and loving husband to his wife of 47 years, Diane (Rice) O'Neill, whom he is survived by. Nothing made Pat more proud than his children: Patrick J. O'Neill III (Rose), Megan (Bob), Shannon, Kaitlin, and Ryan (Jamie). Pat was a doting grandfather to his favorite granddaughter--Ava Rosenthal, favorite oldest grandson--Quinn O'Neill, and favorite youngest grandson--Gavin O'Neill.

Pat was the oldest of five children; born in Chicago, IL on November 20, 1947 to parents Patrick and Elizabeth (Barry) O'Neill. He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as brothers Terrence and Michael O'Neill; survived by sister Maureen (O'Neill) Bardusk and brother Thomas O'Neill.

Pat was an Air Force veteran, having served during the Vietnam War 1966-1970. Upon returning from the Air Force, he went into the sheet metal fabrication trade. He was known for his strong sense of work ethic and ability to foster an inclusive teamwork environment. He worked at White Way Sign Company for 32 years, until the company closed, and then finished his career at Commercial Stainless Services, from which he retired after nearly 10 years.

Amongst the extended family, Pat was a favorite uncle to many. He and Diane are best remembered for hosting the annual 4th of July party, where they welcomed upwards of 70 guests into their serene backyard for a day of fun--swimming, water balloons, ice cream sundaes. The highlight of the party was always the pinata, during which Pat dressed up as Uncle Sam and Diane as Lady Liberty. Pat loved this tradition, as it brought great joy to everyone in attendance, especially the children.

While family was Pat's primary love, learning and reading were close competition. Pat was an avid reader and could be found reading books, magazines, newspapers, flyers, junk mail--pretty much anything he could get his hands on! Pat loved bold colors and had an eye for art and design. When he was out and about, he could be found examining fixtures, signs, and structures; commenting on the good and bad of their constructions. He was a humble man, not interested in flashy things or who-knows-who. Pat valued kindness and instilled its importance into his family. He was always looking out for others and willing to help those in need. He had the ability to find humor in all situations and taught his children to do the same. Pat's end of life wishes were simple--he wants everyone to be nice to each other and to keep laughing.

Services are private. In Pat's honor, we ask for people to be kind and lend a hand to those in need.

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