Katharine O'Neill

Katherine Mary (Katie) O’Neill, 61, died Sunday, March 19, 2017, at the Medilodge of Holland, Michigan, from cancer, in the company of her dear friends.

She was the daughter of Hugh G. and Katharine (Fitzgerald) O’Neill of Cape Cod, MA. Besides her parents, she leaves her brothers, Andrew and Patrick, her sisters Rosemary (her husband, Dan Gabaldon), and Anne Marie, along with her nephews, Matthew (his wife, Natalia), and Cavan. She was predeceased by her brother Hugh Jr.

Katie was a longtime lover of animals. He cared for and rode many horses over the years at the family farm in Ashland, Massachusetts, then continuing at a stable in Michigan. She had a cherished cat, named Grimalkin that she doted on for over 20 years. She treasured music, and all kinds of movies. She enjoyed photography so much that she started her own small business.

Katie moved to Michigan over two and a half decades ago, and during this time she developed an extended family of friends. They were bound to her by common interests, and by her warmth, generosity and love. Katie had a wonderful, welcoming smile, and a sweet, engaging laugh. Katie was embraced by those who met her, as witnessed by a steady stream of visitors when she moved to the hospice facility a few short months ago.

Her family extends a warm thanks to those who were with her to the end, to the many cherished friends who visited her daily, and for the loving care given to Katie by the staff of Medilodge of Holland, and Hospice of Holland.

Katie will be returned to Massachusetts where services will be private. If you wish to make a donation in Katie’s honor, please consider: Hospice of Holland, Inc. 270 Hoover Blvd. Holland, MI 49423, or, St. Francis de Sales Church, 171 W. 13th. St., Holland, MI 49423