Obituary of Thomas O'Neal

Tom O’Neil of Northmoreland township passed away on April 23, 2012 at Robert Packer Hospital. Tom was born in McKeesport PA on April 2, 1943. He was a retired History teacher who taught at McKeesport High School and later at Notre Dame Prep School in Niles, ILL. He was a two-term McKeesport Councilman. Tom was a Custer scholar consulting on books, art and television documentaries concerning General Custer and the Little Bighorn. He served for a number of years as editor of the Little Bighorn Associates’ monthly newsletter. He authored, edited and published monographs and other works dealing with American Western history. Tom was an avid railfan and model railroader. He volunteered for years at the East Broadtop Narrow Gauge Railroad. He was also a long-time Notre Dame Football fan. He was a patriotic American who embraced his Scottish heritage and visited Scotland every year. Tom was a kind and compassionate person, an animal lover who devoted much time, energy and resources to animal rescue, saving dozens of abused, abandoned and homeless animals. He is survived by his wife Alice who is grateful for all the love and support of neighbors, family and friends throughout his illness. In lieu of flowers, Tom’s wish was for donations to be made to the Bunker Hill Hospital’s Spay/Neuter Fund, Route 107, Factoryville, PA 18419.