Thomas O'Neil Obituary

Tom, you were here for us; we are still here for you.

Bob and Brenda

Why aren't you and Jerry here? We have lots of Thanksgiving food left over. You used to enjoy helping us dispose of it.

Much missed and much loved.

Still working on our scholarship award for Tom at Illinois Benedictine University. Please offer suggestions.

Bob

Merry Christmas to you and Jerry. Miss you both--VERY MUCH.

In the last few weeks, Brenda (my wife) and I have been revising our trust. I decided to begin a scholarship in Tom's name. One of the requirements is that the applicant at Illinois Benedictine have been an orphan as Tom and his other brothers and sisters were. More later as I work out the details. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Bob

Looking at your picture today allowed me to think of many memories we shared. Still warmly in our thoughts Tom.

Missing you dear Tom. I'm glad we met at Proco: you made a difference in my life and I hope I enriched yours. Bob Cosgrove

The anniversary of your death, Tom, is fast approaching. Still in our hearts, still in our thoughts.

You and Jerry Nutley are sorely missed

Still in our thoughts and hearts: you did many kind acts for others. And you loved Bloody Marys. And I enjoyed making them for us.

Thinking of the time when I stayed with you when I was a Visiting Scholar at the University of Chicago. That was a wonderful time together.

Still missing you, Tom, along with Jerry Nutley your long time friend.

Many memories pop up from time to time: I especially appreciate your looking in on, helping with, and caring for our mom and dad.

Bill Cosgrove
Bob Cosgrove

You (Tom) and our friend and yours Jerry Nutley are still sorely missed.

Bob and Brenda

Eulogy read by Jerry Nutley at the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery:

"Morrie Swartz once said, 'Death takes a life, not a relationship.' And death has taken Tom, our friend and family member, but the memories we all find at this time recall times of joy and pleasure in knowing this man of many interests and talents. We have all been in touch with Tom during these last months of his life--e-mails, visits, notes, and calls. We have been saddened by the physical changes we noted in the loveable Irishman we called our friend, or uncle, or brother. And we have been fortunate to know that Tom did not die alone: he had the thoughts and prayers from many and the presense of one--Jerry Nutley who was a witness to Tom's passing and a representative for us all.

A few weeks ago, when I asked Tom about the support he was receiving, he said he never realized until "crunch time" how many people cared for him. He seemed to realize something that had been there all the time but hadn't quite connected to him--that he had been loved long before the disease that killed him ever made itself evident.

What physically remains of Tom will be placed beside others--men and women he didn't know but who served in different branches of military service. He died in Hines Veterans' Hospital surrounded by veterans; he will lie through the ages in the presence of veterans buried beside him. Here in the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, maybe it's fitting to end with a quote from Mr. Lincoln who would see this place as hallowed ground: 'I am a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I didn't have the heart to let him down.' Tom was our friend who believed in us. And we believed in and learned from Tom. And he never let us down."

December 6, 2009 Written by Bob Cosgrove (class of 63 at St. Procopius) and Brenda Borron

Many of us from the St. Procopius College of the classes of '62 and '63 have been sending emails to each other with thoughts and memories of Tom. On behalf of all of us, the Lord's peace.

-anon-

Tom
I know it has been a long time since we where at AGO but I remember all of the good times there, May Your Soul rest in peace and say hello to my sister Rose and Brother Walter. And ask God to guide all of us on the right path and to follow him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Tom, I knew you back then and now we hear You went "home for good" and I know you have found real peace. Our prayers and thoughts are with your family.

Former AGO Kid married a USMC veteran
Mary Zampa '56

Archive Photo of Tom from his Senior Graduation from Angel Guardian Orphanage - 1955

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of need. Tom you'll see lots of your AGO brothers and sisters up there loads of talking to do and memories to share.
To the family my your memories bring you comfort.
Betty Dassele (Your AGO family)

May the Lord take you in his arms and welcome you to His Kingdom of heaven. Rest in Peace Tom.

Sending you thoughts of peace during your time of sorrow. Please know that we will also honor Tom on our Memorial Quilt along with the rest of our Fallen Angels on our Angel Guardian Orphanage Alumni Website.

My prayers for an AGO brother who went "Home for Good". Norm Mertel. 28-12. Class of '67.

May he rest in peace. Prayers for the family,

AGO Kid
Patti class of 72

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

So Sorry to read about Tom - we were friends in the late 50's - I corresponded with him when he was in the Marines - he was a year ahead of Paul at AGO - fond memories from long ago.
Lois & Paul Greening

Our whole family feels the loss of this very special person in our life.