Stephen Thomas O'Neill

Stephen Thomas O'Neill, of Rochester Hills, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, at the age of 76, surrounded by his family, after a brief battle with cancer.

Born on April 2, 1949, in Detroit, Michigan, Steve was the beloved son of the late William O'Neill and Margaret O'Neill (née Eggert). He attended Immaculate Heart of Mary Grade School in northwest Detroit, where his early years were filled with strong friendships and fond memories, including summers spent at CYO Boys Camp-an experience he always cherished.

He went on to attend Detroit Catholic Central High School, where he was an active and enthusiastic student-athlete. Steve participated in football, track-where he excelled in the 440-yard dash-competitive swimming, and even cheerleading. He was also a member of the Glee Club and played in a band with friends called The Voyaguers. The friendships he formed during these years remained among the most meaningful of his life, and he stayed closely connected with his classmates.

Steve continued his education at Michigan State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree, was a proud member of the Sigma Nu fraternity, and became a lifelong, devoted Spartan. He loved attending fall football games and tailgating with family and friends, and he especially enjoyed following MSU basketball and the excitement of the NCAA March Madness tournament-bringing the whole family together each year with a spirited and much-loved bracket competition.

It was during his college years that fate-and a memorable spilled cup of coffee on a spring break flight-brought him together with the love of his life, Susan Reynolds.

Steve and Sue married in 1975, beginning a partnership that would span over 50 devoted years. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and unwavering support for one another.

He was a proud and devoted father to four children: Jennifer Gruits (Harry), Emily Herman (Todd), Jeffrey O'Neill (Kristin), and Kimberly Chevalier (Scott).

He was a cherished grandfather, "Papa," to ten grandchildren-Benjamin, Jacob, and Andrew Herman; Madeleine, James, and Wesley Gruits; June, Winnie, and Daisy Chevalier; and Joseph O'Neill-who brought him immense pride and joy.

A driven entrepreneur with a lifelong work ethic, Steve began his career after college in Novi, Michigan, selling scientific instruments for Central Scientific Company. He later served as a buyer for Cox Instrument and went on to become General Manager of KVF-Troy, a company specializing in vibratory metal finishing. Building on that experience, he started his own business, Deburring Specialties, in his garage, which led to the creation of Coating Specialties Inc., a successful diesel engine painting company.

Steve eventually found his niche in the waste and recycling industry, where he founded and operated multiple companies focused on hauling containers and related services. More than 20 years ago, he established his final venture, Sunrise Management Services Inc., a waste and recycling consulting firm that became a cornerstone of his professional legacy. In later years, he had the great privilege of working alongside his children, Jeff and Kim, who spent more than a decade by his side helping to grow and carry forward the business-a source of immense pride for Steve.

He was a man of intellect and curiosity, an avid reader who never passed up a good book or a challenging crossword puzzle. Steve found great happiness in life's simple pleasures. He loved tending to his beautiful garden, golfing-especially as a longtime member of Great Oaks Country Club in Rochester-spending time at the family cottage in Mancelona, Michigan, boating on the lake up north, and relaxing in the sunshine at the family condo in Venice, Florida.

Nothing meant more to Steve than his family. He was a constant and proud presence at swim meets, dance competitions, gymnastics events, and soccer games-never missing an opportunity to support and cheer on his children and grandchildren. He also found great joy in coaching and officiating his children's sports, always encouraging teamwork, effort, and fun. He spent many joyful hours poolside and on the golf course with family and friends, particularly in the men's league at Great Oaks.

A man of deep Catholic faith, Steve was an active member of St. Andrew Catholic Parish in Rochester since the 1980s. He was also dedicated to serving others, generously giving his time for many years as a board member of The Salvation Army Southeast Michigan Adult Rehabilitation Center and supporting many other charitable efforts.

In addition to his beloved wife, Susan, and children, Steve is survived by his sister, Mary Boatright (Donald) and many dear aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Steve will be remembered for his generosity, his warmth, his sharp mind, and his unwavering belief in the goodness of others. His legacy of love, dedication, and kindness will live on in all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

The Salvation Army Southeast Michigan Adult Rehabilitation Center

Detroit Catholic Central High School

Assistance League of Southeastern Michigan