Richard ‘Rick’ Shannon O’Neil, age 69, of Birdsview, Washington, passed away Friday, April 14, 2023, at home. He was born September 23, 1953, in Kalispell, Montana to Jack and Geraldine (Bruno) O’Neil.
They moved to Big Lake and then to Sedro-Woolley where he attended school and graduated in 1971. He served in the Army for 2 years, stationed in Hawaii. After coming home he started a 30-year career at Texaco Refinery as an operator. He later went to work for PSE at their Fredonia Station for 7 more years.
Rick enjoyed fishing, hunting and always looked forward to elk camp each year. His true love was his wife, Myra, she was his rock. The love he had for his kids, grandkids, great grandkids, siblings, cousins and lifelong friends will be greatly missed by all who loved him. Its not goodbye, we will meet again.
Rick is survived by his wife, Myra; children, Jamie Whitlock, Kirin (Dan) Boggs, Ricky O’Neil, Kohl (Sarah) Nibarger, Ryan (Sarah) Nibarger and Sarah (Curtis) Petty; grandchildren, RieAnn, Emma, Hayden, David, McKenna, Bradley, Ethan, Blane, Lexi, Colbie, Max, Kaylee, Carter, Hazel, Allen and Callie Rick, born on April 14; great grandchildren, Archor and Ryder; siblings, Jackie Jo, Jerry (Jackie), Wendy, Shawn (Crystal) and Shelly; a favorite cousin, Peggy Hanson.
He was preceded in death by his parents; aunt, Ethel Ellingson.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4
A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00, Friday, June 16, 2023 at Bethany Covenant Church, Mount Vernon. Share your memories of Rick and sign the online guest register.
You will be greatly missed as friend and a mentor.
To think it all started with this crazy guy coming into our hunting camp looking for a bone saw… Then the Sedro-Woolley boys were born. Good hunting Rick you will truly be missed.
I just learned of Rick’s passing, very sad news. I had the privilege of working with Rick, and always appreciated his work ethic, his upbeat personality, and his professionalism. He was a good guy and the world has lost a bright light. My condolences to all his family and friends. But be happy to know that Rick made a positive difference in the world.
I was so grieved to hear of Rick’s passing. He was a good friend and I was so pleased to be able to work with him again at Fredonia. Our prayers are with you, Myra, and your family . May the Lord give you comfort and peace.
Ray
Always enjoyed being around Rick. Always smiling and a pleasure to be around.
To Rick’s wife, Jackie Jo, Jerry, Wendy, Shawn, and Shelley, I am so sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. We were neighbors on Haines many years ago, and I spent a lot of time at your house with your family. I have a memory of being with Jackie and her uncle, visiting Rick when he was staioned in Hawaii. I know you all have special memories of your time together. My heart goes out to all of you
So sad to hear we lost you Rick. Hadn’t seen you for the twenty years since I retired from Texaco, but you were one of the friends I always trusted and looked up to!
Will miss you, your loving uncle.
Dusty Bruno
So sorry for your loss Myra & family 💔😇
RIP
Rick was a wonderful neighbor always willing to help out or give a word of encouragement. You will be missed. RIP
Rick, you were, in my eye, my big brother. Worked with you for almost 2 decades at the refinery. You were my lead on shift. That’s when I learned how to treat people, all people, with class…you taught me that. Hunted with you at “elk camp” for 2 decades. I loved every second of it. I absolutely loved how you and your brother Jerry “bantered” one another. I could tell that there was a special love between you two. SO many laughs and stories! You lived a great life (I wish that more people were like you) and you are truly missed by all that knew you. I’ll miss you “big brother”. I love you.
It was a pleasure working with Rick at PSE. He was always positive, uplifting and hard working. My heart goes out to you all.
Cheers Rick!
Good hunting. Hope you get the big.
Myra we are sorry to hear of Ricks passing, I love you & your family ❤️
grew up together, school together, wrestled together and joined the Army together. lost track but found again. wish i could of had more time my friend and fellow vet.
I never met Rick but know Myra. Such a bright light and breath of fresh air.
I know he fought the good fight. No more suffering and no more pain.
My condolences to the entire family with heartfelt sympathy.
♥️Teresa Sharpe
Myra I am so sorry for your loss of Rick.
Rick was a good friend. I first met Rick back in 1979 when we were both hired on the same day by Texaco refinery in Anacortes. I don’t think either of us would have thought it was the start of a 30+ year career. As a worker he was tireless, and a source of information others would call on for advice. As a friend he would go fishing, play golf or just talk and want to help. As a person always wanting to help in any way he could.
Til one day we meet again friend, may God Bless you.
You will be missed I know your in heaven mowing lawns love u Ron and annette
Dear Myra and Family Blessings to each of you during this difficult time. The love of Myra toward Rick was a great testament to me in the short time I have known her. Her unwavering commitment and love during the past year is a work of beauty and strength and devotion. Praising God that Rick has no more pain and lifting you here behind to find peace in the love he shared with each of you. 1 Peter 5:10-11
Brother I don’t even know where to start. All the good memories, fishing, hunting. through thick or thin you were always there for family and friends. As they say life goes bye in the blink of an eye, so it won’t be long till we’re together again.
We love you so much Papa Rick! Your kind and light hearted soul will be greatly missed! Papa Rick truly cared about everyone Around him and was ALWAYS willing to lend a helping hand!
Well I never met him but he was a wonderful friend to my elder brother and if he was good enough for my brother then he’s my friend as well …..
Praise the Lord that he’s walking the streets of that beautiful city four square ! God bless y’all and just keep looking up !!!!!
a man of a few words but a heart of gold. I will miss you and thank you for your friendship. love always