Obituary of Robert L. O'Neil

Robert L. O’Neil, 67, of Brookside Avenue, Amsterdam, NY died peacefully at home surrounded by his family following a valiant battle with cancer.  Born on June 24, 1954 in Schenectady, New York he was the son of the late Robert and Doris Cooke O’Neil.

A lifelong resident, Bob was educated at Bishop Gibbons High School graduating in 1972 and was a graduate of Maria College.  For 35 years he was employed by St. Mary’s Healthcare working as a Physical Therapy Assistant, retiring in June of 2020.   

On July 26, 1997 he was united in marriage to his best friend, Donna Balestra O’Neil.  That union was blessed with one son, Michael.  Bob enjoyed camping, especially at Eaton Lake, traveling, going to concerts and was simply a nice guy.  He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Donna; son, Michael; his mother-in-law, Pat Balestra, and extended members of the Balestra family including, Joan Dybas, Jackie & Tom Brownell, Morgan Brownell, and Christopher Brownell; his beloved cats, Rosie & Bella; and his lifelong best friend, Mike Schettine.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Saturday, October 23, 2021 at 11a.m. at Historic St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 156 East Main Street, Amsterdam with the Rev. O. Robert DeMartinis as celebrant.  All are invited to attend.  Masks are required.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Community Hospice, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga, NY 12866 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 www.stjude.org  

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home.  Please visit the online memorial at www.brbsfuneral.com