James E. O'Neill Jr. was a Democratic Michigan politician and teacher who served as a member of that state's House of Representatives from 1967 through 1994.[2] A high school teacher and elementary school principal in Hemlock, O'Neill was a tireless advocate for schools and education, a respected source of information on school finance, and a key contributor to the landmark changes made by Proposal A.[3] O'Neill was also a strong supporter of Saginaw Valley State University, and the arena in the Ryder Center on the campus was named in his honor in 1989.[4][5] Following his retirement from the Legislature, O'Neill was appointed to the Board of State Canvassers. He died of complications from open-heart surgery on December 31, 2002, aged 73.[6]
The Honorable James E. O'Neill Jr. | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Member of the Michigan House of Representatives from the 95th district | |
| In office January 1, 1993 – December 31, 1994 | |
| Preceded by | Alvin Hoekman |
| Succeeded by | Michael J. Hanley |
| Member of the Michigan House of Representatives from the 85th district | |
| In office January 1, 1967 – December 31, 1992 | |
| Preceded by | William A. Boos Jr. |
| Succeeded by | Clark Harder[1] |
| Personal details | |
| Born | May 26, 1929 Saginaw, Michigan |
| Died | December 31, 2002 (aged 73) |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Alma mater | Central Michigan University University of Michigan |
| Profession | Teacher |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Branch/service | Army |
| Years of service | 1951-1953 |
References
edit- ^ "Michigan Legislature".
- ^ The Political Graveyard: Index to Politicians: Oneill
- ^ State of Michigan: Journal of the House of Representatives. No. 7 (February 6, 2003): 92nd Legislature. Pg. 100
- ^ State of Michigan: State Board of Education. Resolution: James E. O'Neill, Jr.
- ^ SVSU: The Interior. January 15, 1991. "Plaques Recognize University Founders, Leaders"
- ^ "James O'Neill, Legislative Education Advocate, Dies at 73". Gongwer News Service. January 1, 2003.
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