William “Bill” Eugene Neal, age 74 of Buffalo, passed away May 3, 2021.
Bill was born on December 6, 1946 in Onawa, Iowa to Charles and Mary Jane (Rouse). He spent his school years in Ames, Iowa where he excelled in track and field. He continued to be a track standout at Dana College in Blair, Nebraska.
After marrying his college sweetheart, Cheryl, in Sidney, Montana in 1969, they moved to the Twin Cities. He began his 36-year career at Security Life Insurance Company of America as an accountant/controller. He became a proud dad to Amanda in ’72 and Josh in ’75. He acquired another son when Amanda married Dale in ’97. The best was yet to come in the form of his cherished grandchildren: Elizabeth, Rachel, and Lucas. He was a devoted husband, dad, and grandpa who was delighted in the activities and accomplishments of the family. He rarely missed an opportunity to watch his kids and grandkids shine.
We’ve lost a humble, generous, and caring man who enjoyed reading, traveling, playing golf, and living on Wild Marsh Golf Course. Along with his brothers Walt, Gerry, and Jim, spending a weekend in April golfing and attending the Drake Relays has been a highlight of each of the last 50 years.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary Jane
He is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl; daughter, Amanda (Dale) Lawrence; son, Josh Neal; grandchildren, Elizabeth, Rachel, and Lucas Lawrence; siblings, Walt (Vicki), Gerry (Patti), and Jim (Carol); and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.
To honor Bill, a time of remembrance open house will be held at Wild Marsh Golf Course from 11:00am to 1:00pm on Monday, May 10th. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Second Harvest Food Bank or the charity of your choice.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com
Godspeed, Bill. Gone much too soon.
We are so saddened to lose such a dear friend, but grateful to have been able to get together recently to enjoy each other’s company. Bill will certainly be missed—and fondly remembered.
Shocked & saddened by Bill’s passing. He was one of if no the easiest going, Nicest guys you could hope to meet as well as; the fastest golfer. May the road to Heaven rise up to meet & greet him !
Shine on brother Bill. Likable is an understatement. Heartfelt thoughts for family and friends…only good and kind memories for a good and kind fellow golfer. Job well done good and faithful friend.
We will miss a former neighbor, travel partner and dear friend. After two trips to Europe and a cruise through parts of Canada and New England, one of our best memories is dipping toes in the Mediterranean in Sorrento, Italy. We will miss you Bill, keep on travelling.
Paul and I are so saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. He was a good man with quiet and calm strength. May your kids and grandchildren give you strength as you move through this very difficult time. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We have such good memories! Sending a hug your way. Naomi and Paul.
My heart goes out to you, Cheryl, and your family. What a great loss to all of you and far too soon. I remember Bill as a fellow Dana College student who was always friendly and kind.
Deepest sympathy, Cheryl and family for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I always enjoyed it when the Neal brothers visited Walt here in Iowa and, of course, we’d meet at the golf course. My condolences to the family.
Never a bump in the road when you golfed with Bill. Good friend and fellow golfer.
I’m sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I’ll miss seeing him at the Drake Relays and playing golf with him and his brothers that weekend. I know the Lord welcomed him with own arms!
I was saddened to hear of Bill’s sudden passing. My sincere condolences to Cheryl and the family. I first met Bill when I was invited to attend the Drake Relays with the Neal brothers and of course that involved playing golf as well. Bill always struck me as having a calm and steady demeanor. With the patented speed golf of the Neal brothers, I quickly put that to the test. I have to say, Bill was always patient with me as I was all over the course and he was generally in the fairway. I appreciated that, as well as the kind words, “pick it up, or that’s good”. Thanks Bill for the kindness that defined you and God’s speed.
Karen and I offer our prayers to you all in this time. We have lost a true gentleman.
Bill was a great friend. We will miss him a lot. Good friends are a rare find.