Patrick James O'Neil

Patrick James ONeil, 56, of Meridian, ID, passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2014 at Huntsman Cancer Center in Salt Lake City from surgical complications. He was diagnosed with early stages of colon cancer when he was 19 years old and battled against various obstacles of this disease for almost 40 years. He showed great courage and strength despite all his health challenges.Patrick was born in Great Falls on April 26, 1958 to John and Catherine ONeil. He attended St. Gerards and Great Falls High School, graduating in 1977. He married Tami Keller in 1981 and later divorced. He was employed most of his life in the electrical wholesale business until forced to retire due to health reasons.He loved his family and enjoyed attending his grandsons sporting events, a good argument, was well read, and if his health had been better, thought he should be the next Irish Catholic president. He was a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan and in fact passed away while the Cowboys were beating the Colts. Throughout the years he kept his sense of humor, but could be a little ornery at times. We loved him all the same. His sister Susan was his accountant, nurse, counselor, and best friend throughout.Survivors include his children, John (Annie), grandsons Taylor and Kason of Kuna, ID and daughter Katherine (Luke), grandsons Carter and Slaiton of Clarkston, WA; brothers Dennis of Helena, Michael of Belt, and sister Susan (Butch) Basto of Great Falls; as well as nieces, aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins.Patrick was preceded in death by his parents and an infant son Dennis Michael.