Don A. O'Neal

1944 - 2025

Don A. O'Neal, 81

Don A O'Neal Sr., a devoted Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa, passed away August 12, 2025 in Post Falls Idaho. A resident of Spokane Valley, Washington, was born March 30, 1944 in Knoxville Tennessee to Carroll E O'Neal Sr and Bernice (Smith) O'Neal (both deceased). When Don was 9 his family moved to Fort Lauderdale Florida, where he graduated from Stranahan High School. Upon graduation, he proudly enlisted in the U S Air Force, serving as a Security Police K-9 handler from August 1962 to August 1966. His service took him to bases including Kadena AFB in Okinawa and Fairchild AFB in Spokane Washington. While at FAFB he met the love of his life, Rebecca (Becki) Gregerson. They were married over 60 years. Following his military service he began a career in law enforcement, serving as a Deputy Sheriff in Lincoln County before returning to Fort Lauderdale to work in law enforcement there. Though he loved Florida, he was drawn back to the Northwest and joined the Coeur D'Alene PD. After moving back to Spokane, he transitioned into a new field, becoming a skilled brake & front-end alignment specialist. He later found his true calling as a Vehicle Salesman, a career he dedicated himself to for over 35 years before retiring.

Don had a deep passion for sports throughout his life. He coached a women's softball team for 20+ years, leading them to numerous championships throughout the Northwest, including a 5th place finish at the first Women's Modified Fastpitch National Tournament in Keene New Hampshire. In recognition of his contributions, Don was inducted into the Inland Empire Softball Hall of Fame in 2017. He also enjoyed snowmobiling, riding his Harley, and working on the vehicles in his classic car collection. Don loved vacationing in Florida, attending class reunions, visiting with new and life-long friends, and especially the time he was able to spend in the beautiful Florida Everglades in their natural state, with his longtime friend Alligator Ron Bergeron and his family. Don's greatest joy was his family. He cherished watching his children and grandkids participate in sports, from T-ball through college.

Don will be missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Becki, and their two children: daughter Tami-Su (O'Neal) Dwyer (Dan) and son Don A O'Neal Jr (Melissa). He leaves behind six grandkids, and was the proud great-grandpa of one great granddaughter: The Dwyer's – Maxwell (Jordyn), Cameron (Kelsey & great granddaughter Lynnlee), Trayton, & Gracee Brinkman (Brady); The O'Neal's – Braydon & Easton. He is also survived by his brother, Ed (Donna), many nieces & nephews, and numerous friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. We are thankful for our loving memories that will last forever. He may be gone but will never be forgotten.

There will be an "Celebration of Life" on Friday September 5, 2025 at The Hive, 2904 E Sprague Spokane, from 2-4 pm. There will be an open mic opportunity to share memories. A ceremony with military honors will be conducted at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake Washington, which will be his final resting place. Bell Tower Funeral Home is entrusted with Don's care.