29 December 1957 – 29 August 2024
Surrounded by his devoted family, John passed peacefully at Epworth Hospital Geelong after a brave battle with motor neurone disease.
Beloved and treasured husband to Vicki.
Loving and amazing father and father-in-law to Patrick and Amy, Brendan and Georgia, Clare and Luke.
Adored Poppy of Emily, Xavier, Albie, Lenny, Parker and Noa. Loved son of Vincent and Sheila (both dec.)
Loved Brother of Dennis (dec.), Mary (dec.) Peggy, Tony (dec.) Pauline, Gerald and Sharon. Loved Uncle and friend to so many.
John was a kind, wonderful and “salt of the earth” man who was loved by so many. Although our lives will never be the same; we take comfort that you are no longer suffering and glad that you can once again wear your double plugger thongs.
Special thanks to the team at MND Clinic Barwon for their support and care during John’s health battle.
Funeral Notice
Please click here to view webcast.
A Celebration of John's life will be held at Tuckers Chapel, Barrabool Hills Centre, 4-32 Province Boulevard, Highton on FRIDAY (6th September) at 10.00am, followed by a sharing of memories and stories at Torquay Bowls Club, 47 The Esplanade Torquay, where in true John fashion, feel free to wear your shorts and thongs.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of John may be made to MND Victoria. Envelopes will be made available at the chapel.
Tributes
My heart is breaking for you and your beautiful family Vicki. The loss of our loved one is enormous.
John will forever be a huge part of your family life his memories and his love for you all will shine through every single day. RIP JohnTo Vicki and family just letting you know we are thinking of you at this sad time John always had time for a chat and and was a true gentleman all the best from the O’Leary’s
May we take comfort in knowing that John is now at peace. Sending strength and love. Thinking of Vicki and family x
John,such a friendly,funny gentleman.
Vicki and family please accept my condolences,your loss of John is immense.
RIP John 🌹Vicki, Patrick, Brendan & Clare, thank you for sharing such a beautiful celebration of John’s life. It was truly moving and may you find the strength in your beautiful family to move forward with so many incredible life lessons and love John gave you. I’m disappointed I couldn’t be there today, currently away on holiday. With love Liz Schmidt. Bert Beriman sends his love. xx
It’s been an honour to call you my friend. A true gentleman an inspiration to all who knew you. Love to All Nola 💙💙💙
Fond memories of a great and popular bloke I knew from the Olympic Tyres to Footscray market days – he had the best sense of humour. Back in the day he said – (talking of his ‘football career’) – “They called me ‘Laminex’ – I was always stuck on the bench”… we laughed so hard..
Sincere condolences to Vicki and family
John O’Neill. How blessed we are to have joined your family through the union of Patty and Amy. You should be rightfully proud of the three wonderful children that you and Vicki brought into this world, your beautiful grandchildren, all who carry your spirit within them. So many cherished memories of a man amongst men.
John, you were an amazing person, Uncle & friend. You & Vic supported me through so many of my turbulent teenage years. Whenever I hear the song (My thongs, My thongs, My thongs I think of you). What a humorous person with no judgment. You talked Shaz & I into surfing at Lorne. What a failure I was but I enjoyed the venture. Godfather to my Bethany you will be missed but always remembered. You wore your thongs to her 21st Birthday on a chilly October evening Birthday. Bless you. Love your Niece Vicki xxx
John you were a wonderful, kind loving family man. We met you 22 years ago when we bought own van in Cottonwood Holiday Park Moana. You and Vicki treated us like family. Your door was always open even after we left the park. Our family has such fond memories of you and will hold them close to our heart always. Sorry we can’t be there but sending love & hugs to your family love Daryl, Kerrie, Meagan & Andrew Buck xxx💜
Great neighbour for many years, A true gentleman. Rest in Peace John. Condolences to all of the family
Love and miss you so much already Dad. You were loving, caring and would do anything without hesitation for your family.