Funeral services and a Mass of Christian Burial for Judi O’Neal, 68, a resident of Davenport, will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 29, 2012 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 417 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Davenport. Visitation will be Friday at the Halligan – McCabe- DeVries Funeral Home, 614 Main Street, downtown Davenport beginning at 4:00 p.m. with a prayer service. The family will greet friends after the prayer until 7:00 p.m.
Judi died Tuesday, September 25, 2012 in the comfort of her own home, surrounded by her family. She passed following a courageous battle with cancer.
Judith Nadine O’Neal was born February 14, 1944 in Savanna, Illinois a daughter of John Edward “Ed” and Velva Nadine “Goldie” (Anderson) O’Neal. She graduated from Assumption High School class of 1962. She then attended AIC.
She was united in marriage to Lawrence Thomas “Larry” Gasper.
She was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, the ladies guild at the church, the Davenport Moose Auxiliary, and the St. Patrick Society Quad Cities, USA.
In earlier years she was a food broker. She later followed her dreams and became owner of the “Whistle Stop Restaurant” in Buffalo.
Judi enjoyed playing cards, especially euchre. She also enjoyed skiing, and spending time outdoors along the river. Judi’s interest in the restaurant business was directly related to her talents as a cook. She enjoyed entering BBQ Rib contests, and won many first place awards and blue ribbons.
Her greatest joy in life was her family; she was proud of her two children and grandchildren. She loved spending time with her entire extended family; as well as celebrating her Irish Heritage. Judi also found great comfort from her canine companion, Louie. He was a constant source of happiness to her.
Memorials can be made to the Judi O’Neal Memorial Fund in care of the family.
Those left to honor her memory include a daughter and son-in-law, Paulette and Rick McKenna, a son, Jeff Gasper (Janie Boyle), all of Davenport; her beloved grandchildren, Miranda McKenna and Mitchell McKenna; sisters, Donna O’Neal Jones and John, Jonna and Bill Thiessen, all of Davenport; a brother, Tim (LeAnn) O’Neal, Conway, Arkansas; special friend, Larry Markey; a special cousin, Mary Fey Dircks (many thanks to you for everything); and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Online remembrances and condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting Judi’s obituary at www.hmdfuneralhome.com.