Obituary
Martin Henry O’Neil
On the morning of Thursday, May 28th, 2020 the world lost a remarkable man. We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Martin Henry O’Neil.
Martin was predeceased by his loving wife, Bertha and was the last surviving member of his family. He will be missed beyond measure by his devoted children; Gerald (Anja), Jeanette (Sean) and Karen, his many nieces and nephews, his close and lifelong friends.
Martin had the honor and privilege of growing up and living on the family homestead for an incredible 82 years. His love for the farm was immeasurable and he proudly raised livestock and grew grain using his ability to build or fix anything to keep the farm running. He loved to have family and friends visit, whether to enjoy a walk along the creek, gather in the farmhouse kitchen for a lively singalong, or sharing stories at dinner with the family he so adored.
Martin’s faith was paramount in his life and he was a devoted parishioner first at St. John’s Catholic Church and later at The Good Shepherd. He was a proud usher at St. John’s, as well and following his retirement, he offered his handyman skills to the parish and at Christmas he looked forward to the much revered setting up of the nativity scene.
Over the span of his work life as a custodian, Martin was a dedicated employee with Manitoba Hydro, Portage City Garage and for a long tenure at The Portage Credit Union. All this while he was successfully tending to his pride and joy, his beautiful farm.
Martin had a special bond with his brother Geordie. He often said they were like two peas in a pod. As children, in the winter, their responsibility was to light the fire in the stove at North Ridge School so it would be comfortable when the other students arrived.
One of Martin’s fondest winter projects and which he took great pride in, was creating an ice skating rink on the creek. The project included a warm-up shack, music, lights and a groomed path from the farmhouse to this winter wonderland appreciated by his children, their friends and extended family.
Martin was so beloved by all who knew him. He embarked on a new chapter in this life when he moved into the Lion’s Prairie Manor in the spring of 2019. He established bonds very quickly with his neighbors on Walker Road South. The family can’t thank each of them enough for loving Martin as they did. We wish to acknowledge the careful attention he received from the staff as well, especially Gwen who included him on the marquee during weekly singalongs. As well a special thank you to the medical staff at Portage General Hospital for their respectful care of Martin during his frequent stays.
Although the celebration of Martin’s life will be a private affair it will be available by live stream.
Viewing will be held on Thursday, June 4th, 2020 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm at the Omega Funeral Home, 83 Royal Rd. S., Portage la Prairie, MB.
Due to the pandemic restrictions, a private family Funeral Mass will be held at the Good Shepherd Church on Friday, June 5th, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. with Father Gerald Langevin. All are welcome to the interment following the service at Hillside Cemetery.
Social distancing measures will be in place.
In lieu of flowers, should friends so desire donations can be made to the Portage Hospital Foundation, 524 – 5th St. SE, Portage la Prairie, MB or the Lions Prairie Manor, 24 9th St. SE, Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3V4
Live stream of the service will be available – please click here to view youtu.be/LHMDu52UNrs.
Messages of condolences can be made online at www.omegafuneralhome.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Martin Henry O’Neil, please visit our floral store.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Martin Henry O’Neil August 20 1924 May 28 2020 (age 95)..
Death notice for the town of: Portage-la-Prairie, Province: Manitoba