Dr. James Anthony O'Neill

Dr. James (Jim) A. O'Neill, M.D. — a beloved pediatrician, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and pillar of the Clarkston community for more than six decades — passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026. Dr O'Neill's life stands as a testament of devotion-to his Catholic faith, his family, his patients, his community.

Dr. O'Neill was born in Williston, North Dakota on December 27, 1934.  He spent his youth working on his family's cattle ranch, where he developed a strong work ethic and a lasting appreciation for the land and sense of the community.

Dr. O'Neill attended St. Thomas University in Minneapolis before entering Saint Louis University School of Medicine at just 19 years old, graduating in 1958 at the top of his class. While in medical school, he met the love of his life, Mikel Marion Werner.  Jim completed a pediatric residency at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. Following residency, Jim and Mikel bought the historic Henry Ford Home in Clarkston known as Deer Hills Farm. Side by side, they raised six children at their home while operating a working farm. They had Hereford cattle, tended vegetable gardens, and grew corn, including a well-known patch of white and yellow sweet corn that became part of the local landscape. Jim found great joy in working the land and planted more than 150,000 trees.

Dr. O'Neill opened Clarkston Medical Group in 1961 and became a trusted presence for generations of families throughout Clarkston and Oakland County. Known for his unwavering dedication, he provided around-the-clock care—often answering late-night calls and on many occasions treating patients at his own kitchen table reflecting a level of commitment that went far beyond the traditional medical practice. In 1983, he co-founded the Clarkston Ambulatory Care Center, creating 24 hour access to care for a growing community.

Dr O'Neill's impact extended well beyond medicine, Jim and Mikel supported numerous local organizations, youth programs and community initiatives.  They opened their home to exchange students and countless guests over the years. Dr. O'Neill also proudly served his country in the National Guard, retiring with the rank of Colonel after 15 years of service. He held a deep and enduring love for his country and believed strongly in the importance of civic responsibility.

Those who knew Dr. O'Neill remember his quiet strength, selflessness, humility, and genuine care for others. He had a rare sixth sense with medicine, along with an ability to listen, reassure and connect —not just as a physician, but as a trusted presence and mentor in people's lives. Many of his patients returned years later with their own children and grandchildren, a testament to the enduring relationships he built.  His legacy will continue to live on in the countless lives he touched, the country he served, and the community he helped shape.

Dr. O'Neill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mikel Marion O'Neill, and his son, Devin Werner O'Neill. He is survived by his children: Mike (Kathy) O'Neill, Kari (Len) Gorz, Megan (Rick) Nini, Danny (Karyn) O'Neill, and Tim (Gretchen) O'Neill. He also leaves behind cherished grandchildren: Chad Nini, Joseph Gorz, Marla Nini, Elizabeth Gorz, Michael O'Neill, Jeffery O'Neill, Jeremy O'Neill, Katie O'Neill, Rebecca Gorz, Adelena Nini, Emilie O'Neill, Riley O'Neill, Branigan O'Neill, and Brecken O'Neill; as well as great-grandchildren Sloane Gorz, Jett Gorz, Remy O'Neill, and Audrey Fritz.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michigan Rett Syndrome Foundation , Clarkston SCAMP, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and Jesuits at Colombiere Center.

Visitation (Wake): Thursday, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with 7:30 PM Rosary, April 23, 2026 at Lewis E. Wint & Son Funeral Home

Funeral services will take place on Friday, April 24, 2026, at St. Daniel Catholic Church, with a welcome beginning at 10:30 AM and the Funeral Mass celebrated at 11:00 AM.

Please leave a memory on the online guestbook below.