Kennebunkport, Maine

Eugene F. O’Neill, Jr., of Exeter, NH and Kennebunkport, ME died Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at his summer home in Kennebunkport, ME, after a brief battle with cancer. Gene’s love for business was only topped by that for his family. He was a business visionary who always made time to help others and provide strategic advice with his trademark caveat that free advice is worth what you pay.

Gene was born on September 24, 1953 in Manchester, CT. He grew up in Brookline/Chelmsford, MA, graduated from Chelmsford High School, Class of 1971. Working days and studying at night, he earned a BA from University of Massachusetts, Lowell, where he developed an interest in business. Despite a non-traditional path, he was admitted to Harvard Business School where he received his MBA in 1981.

Gene went on to hold a variety of leadership positions at General Foods (now Kraft), Gillette (now P&G), CB Richard Ellis, Cushman & Wakefield, and Codman Company. Seeking entrepreneurial independence, he founded The Manchester Consulting Group, a business consulting firm based in Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA. As Managing Director, he provided management consulting and investment advisory services to emerging and turnaround companies. Later he went on to Ceralta Technologies, Inc. and then became managing director at North Bridge Capital. Gene excelled at finding the diamond in the rough, seeing opportunities for innovation and creative solutions in a range of businesses and industries. He was active on many boards including the Harvard Club of Boston.

Gene balanced his passion for business with love of family, attending every dance recital and field hockey game for his daughters and later enjoying time with his four grandchildren. As a boating enthusiast, he renovated several boats and enjoyed navigating the waters around Kennebunkport.

He is survived by his loving wife Jan of 42 years; daughter Jackie Sparling and husband Christian; daughter Liz Hassler and husband Peter; and grandchildren Violet, Olin, Mason, and Neve.

Based on his wishes there will be a memorial in the spring. To receive information on the memorial please email EFOMemorial@gmail.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Harvard Business School Fund (Student Financial Aid) or The Landing School in Arundel, ME.

To share a memory or leave a message of condolence, please visit Gene’s Book of Memories Page at www.bibberfuneral.com.

Arrangements are in care of Bibber Memorial Chapel, 67 Summer St. Kennebunk, ME 04043.