Lorene 'Lorie' O'Neil

Lorene 'Lorie' O'Neil Obituary Lorene "Lorie" Kay O'Neil, age 66, of Ogallala, NE, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at her home, surrounded by family. Lorie was born on August 17, 1957, in Ogallala, NE, to Donna and Darold Eberhardt. She graduated from Wauneta High School in 1975. In June of 1975, Lorie married Conn ONeil in Imperial, NE. In 1988, Lorie, Conn, and their three children moved to Ogallala, NE, where the family put down roots. Lorie dedicated 24 years of her life as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service. Along her route, she regularly greeted the residents of Ogallala with her bright smile and warm spirit. Lorie's love for life was evident in the way she lived. She embraced the outdoors, loved being active, and was always ready for her next adventure. Whether she was biking, hiking, kayaking, traveling, working out, or revealing her youthful competitiveness during a 'friendly' pickleball game, Lorie was constantly on the go. She found peace in nature - from gardening to beekeeping to goats and pumpkins, Lorie was willing to try it all. Forever an explorer, Lorie could often be found arrowhead hunting along the river, behind her home. Lorie was a faithful friend, devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandma. She cherished every opportunity to spend time with her grandchildren. Lorie is lovingly survived by her husband of 48 years, Conn of Ogallala; daughter, Kasie (Joey) Gaona with grandchildren Jonah and Micah of Highlands Ranch, CO; son, John (Maggie) ONeil with grandchildren Aniston and Riggins of Ogallala, NE; son, Mark ONeil of Glenwood Springs, CO; sister Peg (Gary) Epple of Granbury, TX; and many close friends. Lorie was preceded in death by her mother, Donna Eberhardt; father, Darold Eberhardt; stepmother, Lynn Eberhardt; and brother, David Eberhardt. Lorie will be dearly missed by her family and friends. In her memory, let us remember Lories vibrant spirit and the joy she brought to those around her. May her legacy live on in the hearts of those she loved and touched. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 5th, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. at Draucker Funeral Home Chapel in Ogallala, NE. The family will greet guests from 1:00 to 2:00 P.M. in the chapel. Officiating will be Bobby Brueggeman of the Ogallala Church of Christ. Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com The service will be live-streamed at www.drauckerfh.com. Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Services Visitation Sunday November 5, 2023 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM Draucker Funeral Home 700 N. Spruce Street Ogallala, NE 69153 Celebration of Life Sunday November 5, 2023 2:00 PM Draucker Funeral Home 700 N. Spruce Street Ogallala, NE 69153