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 byAlvin Hoekman
Succeeded byMichael J. Hanley
Member of the Michigan House of Representatives
from the 85th district
In office
January 1, 1967 – December 31, 1992
Preceded byWilliam A. Boos Jr.
Succeeded byClark Harder[1]
Personal details
Born(1929-05-26)May 26, 1929
Saginaw, Michigan
DiedDecember 31, 2002(2002-12-31) (aged 73)
Political partyDemocratic
Alma materCentral Michigan University
University of Michigan
ProfessionTeacher
Military service
AllegianceUnited States of America
Branch/serviceArmy
Years of service1951-1953

References

edit
  1. ^ "Michigan Legislature".
  2. ^ The Political Graveyard: Index to Politicians: Oneill
  3. ^ State of Michigan: Journal of the House of Representatives. No. 7 (February 6, 2003): 92nd Legislature. Pg. 100
  4. ^ State of Michigan: State Board of Education. Resolution: James E. O'Neill, Jr.
  5. ^ SVSU: The Interior. January 15, 1991. "Plaques Recognize University Founders, Leaders"
  6. ^ "James O'Neill, Legislative Education Advocate, Dies at 73". Gongwer News Service. January 1, 2003.