David O’Neill 1947-2024

Dave was born in Rapid City, South Dakota, to Patrick and Irene O’Neill. He graduated from South High School in Youngstown in 1966. He enlisted in the Navy after graduation and served four years on the USS Vancouver LPD-2 and earned the rank of boatswains mate 3.

After discharge from the Navy, Dave remained in California. His education in computer science led to employment in the banking sector and then to work in the music and entertainment industry at Capitol Records, Spelling Entertainment and Sony Corporation.

Dave was active in his church, Calvary Chapel of the Harbour in Huntington Beach, and a faithful member of his men’s group there. He loved spending time with his family, his friends, his walking group and the Club of Harps harmonica group. He also taught youth harmonica classes in Long Beach. Dave was a lifetime member of VFW Post 1273 in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Dave is survived by his three children, Julie Snyder, Kevin O’Neill (Kristi) and Megan Fonte (Nelson), all of California; 14 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; former wife, Karen O’Neill; his two brothers, Keith O’Neill (Bonnie) and Kent O’Neill; five sisters, Eileen O’Neill, Kathryn Zion, Karen O’Neill (Butch), Konnie Sorensen (Dan) and Kelli Heidel (Ron); two aunts, Kathleen Shull and Marilyn Cummings; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Patrick and Irene; stepmother, Donna O’Neill; sister-in-law, Julie O’Neill; stepfathers, Frederick Halt and William Constance; and his first wife, Patsy (Baynock).

Dave was a man of faith, courage and strength. He was able to rise above many challenging circumstances in his life with faith, grace and a great sense of humor. He was a devoted family man, a great storyteller and harmonica musician. He is greatly missed, leaving behind a wonderful legacy and many precious memories.

There will be a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 18, 2024, at Grace United Methodist Church in Piedmont, South Dakota. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend (gracepied

mont.com, Live Stream tab. Also, on youtube.com).

A military service with honor guard and inurnment will follow at 2 p.m. Thursday at Black Hills National Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be sent in Dave’s memory to the Club of Harps, www.clubofharps.org.

(special notice)