William Robert O'Neill

William "Bill" Robert O’Neill, 91, longtime Superior resident, passed away Monday, October 14, 2024 in Superior, WI. He was born July 3, 1933, the son of John and Lorraine (Thorpe) O’Neill in Sioux City, IA.

He graduated from Pipestone High School, class of 1951, and went on to earn a telegrapher degree from Dunwoody College of Technology.

On February 24, 1957, he married the love of his life, Lois M. Johnson, in Flandreau, SD. They shared 67 years together.

Bill was employed as trainmaster for Great Northern/Burlington Northern Railroad for 40 years. He loved railroading, it was his dream job. He was a dedicated member of Concordia Lutheran Church. The Sons of Norway welcomed him as a member (even though he was an Irishman).

For Bill, life was all about family and friends. He was active in the lives of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always available to them when needed. He enjoyed the annual fishing trips to Canada with his brother, sons and grandchildren. Woodworking with Bill Downs and Dick Jacobson was one of the joys of his retirement. Music by Frank Sinatra and Roger Whittaker were his preferred choices. He will be greatly missed.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Lois O’Neill; sons, Michael (Jonelle) O’Neill, Haslet, TX and Thomas (Nancy) O’Neill, Superior; grandchildren, Erin (Christopher) O’Neill-Dauer, Catelynn (Travis) Miller, Keegan (Alicen) O’Neill, Kali (Jordan) Jacobsen; and great-grandchildren, Michaela Dauer, Maddox Dauer, Reese Miller, Harper Miller, and Elliana Jacobsen; and his sister-in-law, Marcia O’Neill.

He was preceded in death by his parents; twin brother, John O’Neill; and half-sister, Mary Catherine Ausmus.

Visitation will begin at noon, Saturday, October 19, 2024 at Concordia Lutheran Church, 1708 John Avenue in Superior and will continue until the 1:00 PM service with Pastor Sean Koos and Gary Banker officiating. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery.

Pallbearers for the service will be Keegan O’Neill, Jordan Jacobsen, Chris Dauer, Travis Miller, Ken Harmer and Pete Quist.

The Downs-LeSage Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a condolence or sign the guestbook, please visit www.downs-lesage.com.