Arthur O’Neil, The Flamingo Man of Mansfield
Dateline: Mansfield, MA
Art O’Neil, forever known as the Flamingo Man of Mansfield passed away unexpectedly Friday morning July 14th 2023 at 6:20 AM. Art was born in Brookline MA on March 2nd 1944 and was the son of the late Catherine Casale. He leaves behind his wife Sandi O’Neil of 54 years, son Brian O’Neil, daughter Rebecca Mason, daughter in law Sheila Walberg O’Neil and grandchildren Merrik & Regan O’Neil.
Arthur worked for Northrop in Norwood MA, for 30 years as a Systems Analyst. One of the most enjoyable projects he had was creating the first computer generated tickets for the New England Patriots and the Boston Red Sox. After retiring he worked for The National Grid, he was one of only a few analysts who could work with the aging main frame computers, he retired from there after 6 years.
Arthur would vacation with his family at Hillcrest Campground in Chichester, NH for two decades. He would volunteer for every event like the Luau cooking 4 whole pigs and getting up at 4 AM to get them going. Christmas in July was incredibly special with decorations and lights galore while helping to cook dozens of Turkeys. Art was well known at the campground for his Blue Tuxedo that he would wear for many occasions throughout the summer.
In retirement he became an avid golfer and volunteered as an usher for the local PGA tournaments. His vast collection of Loudmouth Clothing was a good way to spot him on the golf course and anywhere he went. His love of golf continued as he moved into The Village at Willow crossing and started a miniature golf tournament as a great form of entertainment for all. For Valentine's Day he dressed up in his best Tuxedo (not the blue one) and passed out Dozens of Roses to all the women at the Village.
Arthur always loved the Christmas holiday and went above and beyond with lighting and decoration of their home of 43 years at 276 Central St in Mansfield. The decorations consumed the front and back yard and was quite the attraction for all in Mansfield. When the decorations became too much for him to handle, he donated all of them to the local Boy Scout Troop that would sell Christmas Trees at the old Paine school.
What Arthur was most famous for was his beloved collection of Flamingos that began in the mid 90’s at their home at 276 Central St. He garnered the attention of WCVB News 5 when some teenagers kidnaped some of his Flamingos and left a ransom note written on the belly of one. They did return them to the police, and all was well. The evening program Chronicle on channel 5 came out to see Art and had a whole segment on his Flamingos. The joy it brought to all was incredible, Art would dress them up for every occasion and spring graduation was very popular. Many high school graduates would have their pictures taken with the Flamingos dressed up in their graduation attire. Many people left cards, letters and even more Flamingos and related gifts for Art in gratitude for the display that cheered everyone up!
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider donating to the John M. Barry, Boys & Girls Club of Newton in Arthurs name. The club helped him tremendously as a young man becoming the warm friendly and most generous man spreading a contagious joy to everyone he meet. https://www.newtonbgc.com/
Arthur did not want a wake or funeral, he wanted a Party! Tentatively we are planning Arthurs Celebration of Life for Saturday December 2nd 2023. Time and location to be announced, please e-mail Brian O’Neil at [email protected] with your contact information and we will send the information when complete.
In Arthur’s memory, we invite you to celebrate his life by sharing your favorite stories, photos, and moments with his family; please visit www.shermanjackson.com