Howard A. O'Neil

Howard Allen O’Neil, 85, of Cranberry passed away in the early morning hours of Tuesday, Oct. 7 at UPMC Hamot following a brief illness.

He was born July 25, 1940 to Lester and Nina (Knight) O’Neil in Van, where he lived his entire life.

After graduating from Cranberry High School in 1958, Howard put himself through college, working on a crew laying pipe as well as working for his uncle on his farm.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education Degree with a specialization in mathematics and physical science in 1962, the first person in his family to earn a bachelor's degree. He later earned a master's degree in mathematics education.

He married the former Ann Holquist at Christ Lutheran Church in Oil City on the evening of Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 22, 1962.

Howard spent his career teaching at Cranberry High School for 34 years, retiring in 1996.

He also farmed, which he learned from his father and his uncle, Bill McClain, who had a large impact on his life. Howard also worked construction, building a number of houses in the area. Howard worked very hard his whole life. He was a good neighbor and friend who was always ready to lend a hand to help people in need.

He enjoyed hunting, collecting guns and woodworking. In his retirement, he built many beautiful pieces of furniture which are treasured by his family.

He was delighted by his grandchildren and was a wonderful grandfather to them.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter, Amy; brothers, Bob and Walter O’Neil; sisters, Kate Davis and Grace Smith.

He is survived by his wife of almost 63 years, Ann; three sons, Tim of Akron, Ohio, Doug (Katrina) of Cranberry, and Greg (Naomi) of McMurray; and eight grandchildren, Kara, Laura, Lydia, Emily, Calvin, Andrew, Matthew and Allison O’Neil; and his brother, Ray O’Neil of Seneca, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held at Hile-Best Funeral Home, 2781 Rte. 257 in Seneca from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday (October 11)  A funeral service will follow at the funeral home Saturday at 3 p.m. with Pastor Jeremy Coyer, officiating.  

A brief committal service will follow at Mount Zion Cemetery in Cranberry.

To express online condolences, visit www.hilebest.com 

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