Michael George O'Neil

Michael "Mike" George O’Neil, of Otsego, MN passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Saturday, March 26th.
He leaves a huge hole in the hearts of his family and friends who were always entertained by his stories and hilarious sense of humor. He truly brought the life to the party.

Mike (eazygeorge to some) was born on August 24, 1943, to Robert O’Neil and Thelma O’Neil (Massey) in Robbinsdale, Minnesota.
He grew up and went to school in Robbinsdale with his sister and brother. He spent many summers at the family farm in Windom, MN and enjoyed hunting and fishing. Mike was not into sports, but he loved to fight and would always take on the biggest guy. Sometimes he won and sometimes he lost but he fought hard and loved even harder.

It was on the football field where a pretty cheerleader who eventually became his wife, caught his eye.
Mike and Karen (Morrill) were married in Robbinsdale on August 17, 1963. Shortly after they were married, Mike joined the Army and was stationed in Anchorage Alaska. Mike and Karen made many good friends in Alaska and enjoyed, camping, fishing, and hunting.
After his discharge from the Army, Mike and Karen returned to Minnesota and raised their three daughters, in the Andover/Anoka area.
Mike was proud to follow in his father’s footsteps as an over the road truck driver and enjoyed the last several years of his career living in Wildomar, CA and eventually returned to Minnesota when he retired at age 59.
During retirement, Mike spent most weekends at his seasonal place on Mille Lacs Lake where he met many new friends.
Mike was a polarizing character who loved debating politics, singing dirty songs, telling jokes/riddles and in general, just stirring up the pot! No matter the circumstance, you'd always leave with a good story of something funny/crazy Mike did or said while you were with him.
Mike is survived by his wife of 59 years, Karen, his daughters Colleen (Kurt), Bonnie (Tom) and Kelli along with his brother Patrick (Winnie) of whom he loved deeply. He is also survived by his grandchildren Cody, Jessica, and Allison (Kurtis) who were the most important thing in the world to him. Being a grandfather brought him so much happiness.

We find comfort in knowing that Mike is at peace, joining his parents, older sister Sherry Shaw and granddaughter, Carolyn Gallagher.
There will be a gathering for family and friends to share their memories of Mike at the Coon Rapids VFW Post 9625 located at 1919 Coon Rapids Blvd NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433 on Friday, April 1st from noon to 3pm.
A light lunch will also be served.

Caring for Mike and his family
Halvorson Taylor Funeral Home
Brainerd 218.829.3581