Helen O’Neill passed away on Sunday, March 14, 2010, at RC Regional Hospital.

Helen was born to Edward & Bessie Meyer in Sheboygan WI on April 13, 1917. She married the love of her life, Wayne “Red” O’Neill in Sundance WY on September 19, 1941. They moved to their ranch near Hermosa SD and lived there until retirement in 1992.

Upon receiving her teacher’s certificate from Black Hills State University, Spearfish SD, Helen taught in rural schools of Pennington County for 4 years before becoming a full-time rancher’s wife and mother. She also worked at Braun’s Clothiers for 20 years; as an auctioneer clerk for 10 years; and as the Hermosa Postmaster for 3 years. She was active with the Hermosa Congregational Church and the Hermosa Eastern Star and many other volunteer activities for the community.

Helen was an avid reader of books, which kept her mind active and until recently was a huge fan of playing cards; she loved to meet with her bridge group.

She is survived by her wonderful husband, of 68 years, Red O’Neill, Rapid City; daughter, Judy (Woody) Germany, Missoula MT; son, Terry (Wendy) O’Neill, Bozeman MT; grandson Jason (Aimee) Germany, Seattle WA; brother James (Joan) Meyer, Beloit, WI and sister Kaye Balco, San Mateo, CA.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Brian, Edward & Wilbur and two sisters, Marion & Joyce; and grandson Troy O’Neill.

Memorials have been established for the Hermosa Congregational Church, PO Box 265, Hermosa, SD 57744 and the Hermosa Eastern Star Chapter, %Claire Scott , 24934 Four Wheel Dr, Custer SD 57730

The family wishes to thank Dr Houser and TCU 7NE nurses at RC Regional for their
wonderful care of Helen; we so much appreciated their concerns.

Memorial services will be held at Kirk Funeral Home, 1051 E Minnesota St, Rapid City SD on Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 2PM with Reverend Diane Jensen-Hemmen officiating. On line guestbook is available at www.kirkfuneralhome.com