Brian O'Neill: Life, Work of Sanctuary Advisory Council Member Remembered

Brian O'Neill

On May 29, members of the sanctuary staff were among over 2,000 people who journeyed to Crissy Field on a gray blustery day to pay tribute to Farallones Sanctuary Advisory Council member and General Superintendent of the Golden Gate Recreation Area, Brian O’Neill, in a celebration of his life and work.  Brian passed away on May 13 after complications from heart surgery.

O’Neill occupied the council’s Government Seat for Interior. The ceremony drew representatives of government agencies and conservation groups from across the country. Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey and District Director for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Dan Bernal, were among those who praised the superintendent’s work.

Regarded as one of the most powerful forces behind the preservation of some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, he headed one of the largest urban park districts in the country since 1986, making him one of the most influential superintendents in the Park Service.

Brian O’Neill was a park and conservation leader renowned throughout our community and around the world. His insights into complex urban/wildlands interface and human dynamics made his contribution to the sanctuary council invaluable. He was a friend, mentor and inspiring force for so many, and a staunch ally of our Farallones Sanctuary.

Of all the people he inspired, Brian had a special place in his heart for young people – the leaders of the next generation that would carry his legacy forward. He understood the critical role of young people in the long-term stewardship of parklands and the conservation of our cherished natural places, historic landmarks and urban communities.

Throughout his time at Golden Gate, Brian inspired many young people to pursue careers in public service and conservation, and contributions in his memory should be made to the “The Brian O’Neill Youth Leaders Fund” of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy.