More detail on this person: Robert Francis O'Neil Obituary Robert F. O'Neil, age 82, passed away peacefully after a life well lived, well-traveled, and rich with laughter. A resident of Appleton, Maine, for over 20 years, Bob was born and raised in Canton, Massachusetts, where he learned early the value of family, hard work, and a good story. He later raised his family in Walpole, Massachusetts, before heading north to Maine, where he quickly found his "people" and never looked back. Bob proudly served his country as a Captain in the United States Marine Corps and was a Vietnam War veteran. As a helicopter pilot flying H-34s, he completed an extraordinary 560 combat missions and was awarded 18 Air Medals. He never stopped talking about the Marines or Vietnam, sharing his experiences often and proudly, always with deep respect for those he served alongside. Bob lived a full, fun, and curious life. A lifelong prankster, he never met a joke, gag, or joke shop he didn't appreciate. He loved gathering with friends and was a renowned storyteller_often embellishing just enough to improve the tale. A devoted Boston Red Sox fan, Bob followed the team faithfully and held a lifelong admiration for Ted Williams, whom he considered the greatest to ever play the game. An animal lover through and through, Bob was rarely without a dog or a cat. His German Shepherds, Maggie and Duffy, were longtime companions, and he leaves behind his cat, Walter, who will undoubtedly miss their frequent naps. Always eager to learn and try something new, Bob pursued a wide range of hobbies and interests, including painting, photography, and various small business ventures, keeping himself happily busy and endlessly entertained. He deeply loved the beauty of Maine and was never happier than when sitting on his deck, quietly watching Sennebec Lake for hours, taking it all in. He was predeceased by his parents, Francis and Anna Mae (Lehan) O'Neil, and by his beloved son, Christopher O'Neil. Bob is survived by his children: Michael O'Neil, Timothy O'Neil, and Kathleen O'Neil; and his cherished grandchildren: Jack and Megan O'Neil, Liam Gunther, and Danny and Kevin O'Neil, all of whom he adored and was immensely proud of. He is also survived by his sister, Judith O'Neil of Mexico; his former wife, Judith O'Neil; and countless friends in Maine and far beyond. The family would especially like to recognize Andy, Mike, and Dave, dear friends in Maine who truly looked out for Bob in recent years and meant more to him than words can say. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 7, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church on 10 Diamond Street, Walpole, MA 02081. A celebration of life and gathering of friends in Maine will also be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, friends are encouraged to share a good story, tell a joke, pet a dog, or raise a glass in Bob's memory_preferably all at once. The family extends a special thanks to the VA in Togus for their wonderful care over the past few years. Semper Fi.
This information was last updated 04/03/2026
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Date posted on this site: 04/18/2026
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