Obituary of Andy Thomas O'Neil

Andrew "Andy" Thomas O'Neil, aged 88, of Chatham, passed away peacefully with his family by his side at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on Saturday, September 19, 2020. Cherished husband of Simonne (Charlebois) for 64 years.

Loving father of Dan and Brenda O’Neil, Dennis and Annette O’Neil, Lynn and Mark Moir and Lisa and Dave Powell. Dearly missed by 11 grandchildren, Kelly, Michael, Matthew, Patrick, Lauren, Brodie, Jodi, Jillian, Erin, Max, Alicia and seven great grandchildren.

Predeceased by an infant son, Leon. Andy was the owner of Biddell’s Tire Service in Chatham for 48 years and took great pride in his community. He sponsored numerous sports teams and was involved in many service organizations including The Jaycees, The Sertoma Club, The Knights of Columbus (3rd degree), The St. Vincent De Paul Society, and The Goodfellows Paper Campaign.

He was also the past-president of the Kent Liberal Association, and sat on the executive of the Chatham Senior Maroons and the Chatham Kent Concrete Baseball team. He was a proud member of St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church. Andy loved to be surrounded by people, especially family, where he was king of the “Papa” jokes. A prolific player of practical jokes and euchre, he laughed loudest when the joke was on him and delighted in making a lone hand on “nothing”.

His infectious spirit, energy and smile were always on display as he meted out his sage advice: “Hi Ho the fox,” “Sky’s the limit” and Slainte – an Irish toast to a life well lived.

As per Andy’s wishes, Cremation has taken place.

A Private Family Service will be held in the Funeral Home on Thanksgiving weekend. The Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home Ltd. 156 William St. S., Chatham (519-352-5120) is in charge of arrangements.

Donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated.