NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Richard (Mickey) O'Neill, 85, of North Adams passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on April 9, 2017, after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born on November 29, 1931, son of Thomas and Hazel Estes O'Neill. Mickey graduated from Drury High School in 1950. He served in the Korean War from 1952-1954 when he was honorably discharged as sergeant. He worked at Sprague Electric as a draftsman/package engineer, and at Unistress as a purchasing manager. Mickey was last employed at AFC where he retired at age 82. 

Mickey served on the Conservation Committee in North Adams, was a member of the Clarksburg VFW, the Senior Greylock Bowling League, and the Stamford Retired Men's Golf League.

Mickey was born into a large family of four sisters and 10 brothers so family became his most treasured thing. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed family camping trips, picnics, going to the beach, fishing, bowling, and his favorite hobby: playing golf. He was an avid fan of the Red Sox and New England Patriots.

He leaves his high school sweetheart and wife of 64 years Janet (Wright) O'Neill, whom he married August 23, 1952, at First United Methodist Church. They had four children: Debra O'Neill, David O'Neill, Richard (Rick) and wife Karen, and Dawn Shepard and husband Scott. He leaves nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He also leaves two sisters, Bernice Cole, Florence (Polly) Roberts-Dalmaso, and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his son, David O'Neill, who died in April 1978; two sisters; and 10 brothers.

Funeral notice: A Graveside Service for Mickey O'Neill will be held on Friday, April 14, 2017, at 10 a.m. in Southview Cemetery. Calling hours at Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, West Chapel, 521 West Main St., North Adams, Mass., will be Thursday, April 13, 2017, from 5 to 7 p.m. 

Memorial donations may be made to POPCares; HospiceCare in the Berkshires or SoldierOn in care of the funeral home.