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Gary O'Neill Obituary
March 24, 1966 - July 14, 2024
Sequim, Washington - Gary Sean O'Neill, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend was born in Olympia, WA on March 24,1966 and died at age 58 on July 14, 2024, at his home in Sequim, Washington after a yearlong battle with cancer. He is survived by his brothers Tristan, Kyle, and Barry and parents Gary and Nancy O'Neil plus a nephew and six nieces and his partner Tiffany Lozano.
Growing up in Olympia, Sean attended McKinley Elementary School, Washington Middle School and Olympia High School, graduating in 1984. He attended Washington State University, where he joined the Sigma Nu Fraternity. His love for all things Coug continued throughout his life.
Sean had a love for the outdoors, camping, hiking and biking, and possessed an entrepreneurial spirit, which led him to establish two successful businesses. His love of biking and being outdoors led him to Moab, Utah where he started the Chile Pepper Bike Shop, which still runs today. Later Sean returned to the Northwest, ultimately landing in Sequim. There, Sean established the Peninsula Taproom. He was an advocate for small, local businesses and helped encourage the growth of other entrepreneurs.
In May 2023, Sean was diagnosed with brain cancer. Throughout his battle he maintained his positive attitude and gracious spirit. No matter how far along the cancer was, Sean always wanted others to be happy and comfortable. It didn't matter if it was someone coming to help care for him, a nurse or doctor, or a worker in a restaurant, Sean always asked if you were ok, how your day was going, or if you needed anything. He continued to find joy in the simple things in life, coffee, Seattle sports, and KEXP andoften offered little nuggets of wisdom such as, every day you should learn something, pass on knowledge, and be nice to people.
Sean welcomed others without reservation and drew people together. His magnetic personality, quick laugh, and love for life allowed for his friends to become his family and for his family, especially his brothers, to become his friends. His love for them all was only transcended by his love for his nieces and nephew. He took great pride in watching them grow and spending time with them and he was definitely the favorite Uncle.
Though ultimately cancer ended Sean's life, he won the battle because his spirit carries on in those that knew him and loved him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gary O'Neill
Sponsored by DRENNAN-FORD FUNERAL HOME.
Gary Johnston
June 26, 2025
Nancy and Gary, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. No parent should suffer through the loss of your child. My heart bleeds for you.
Shannon Murphy
November 18, 2024
Sean was such a memorable classmate from Middle & High School. May his family & all his friends find comfort in all the wonderful memories of him. I'm so sorry for his passing.
John Stocks
September 28, 2024
Sean was always super nice and smiling. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Nathan French
August 2, 2024
So many great times with this man at Lagunitas. Just a positive vibe and spread happiness and good conversation. You will be missed and remembered
Lynne
August 1, 2024
Sean brought us all together and a day doesn´t go by where we fail to acknowledge that. We miss him every day, but are so very grateful to have known him.
SHU
August 1, 2024
I met Sean shortly after the taproom opened and knew I had a place to hang out with friends. Sean was always cheerful and he took care of us. I will always have the great memories of hanging at the taproom having a beer and chatting with Sean. RIP brother we will meet again and have some brews.
Lorraine Racus
August 1, 2024
Nancy, I am just reading this tragic news about your son Gary's death. I am just learning about this by reading The Olympian this morning. I can't get Facebook or Messenger at the moment and don't know your phone. I am so very very sorry. My love and sympathies to you and your husband. How heartbreaking. Hugs to you. I am not sure about leaving my email on here, as it makes me a bit nervous. Again, I am so sorry. Love, Lorraine R
Judy Wolfe
July 31, 2024
Judy O´Neil Wolfe - our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. Sending love to you all, Judy
Stephanie Rowland Nolan
July 31, 2024
I am so sorry for the loss of your brother, Kyle. My heartfelt condolences to the entire family.
Phoebe Hein
July 31, 2024
Gary and Nancy, I am so sorry for your loss.
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