Olan James “Jimmy” O’Neal

Olan James “Jimmy” O’Neal

With a heavy heart, Olan James O’Neal took his last train ride on May 21, 2020.  He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Mary Jane O’Neal.  His ever faithful dog, Charlie, joined him on May 23.

Jimmy was born in San Pedro, California, on October 16, 1935, to Olan Major O’Neal (dec 1991) and Christina Frances O’Neal (dec 1981). He was a big brother to Bob O’Neal (Jo) of San Diego, California, Darlyn McCarty (Bob) of East Wenatchee, Washington, and was a father to Pamela Warren (Terry) of Marysville, Washington. Jimmy is survived by many relatives who are all in the United States.

Jimmy is survived by my family – my mother, Joyce Rose of Winnipeg Manitoba; my sister, Joy Marsh (Mel) of Winnipeg; my niece Ashleigh Kelman (Cole, Ava, Wyatt & Leia); my niece Alexis Marsh (Dan & Eyrel) of Cincinnati, Ohio, and numerous cousins.  Jimmy loved my family as his own.

Jimmy had a long career with the US Army, serving two tours in Vietnam in the ‘60s.  Thank you for your service.  He went on to work for the US Postal Service, retiring in 1997 to join me in the Yukon.  While in the Yukon, he made many friends.  Jimmy joined the Miles Canyon Historic Railway Society, serving as a Director.  Through the Society, he was involved in the Waterfront Trolley and the Copperbelt Mining and Railway Museum.  He was a dedicated model railroader with an extensive collection.

He has asked that his cremated remains be placed in the military section of the Stonewall Cemetery in Manitoba with family. Due to Covid-19, there will be no gathering in the Yukon, a graveside memorial will be held in Stonewall when travel restrictions are lifted.

Thanks to Copper Ridge Place for the excellent care Jimmy received while in their care.

Always and forever my Jimmy.