Obituary of Richard Joseph Neil

Richard J. Neil, Sr., age 82, of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away Saturday, March 1, 2014 at his residence. Richard was born March 19, 1931 in Chicago, Illinois to John and Victoria Neil. He married Norine Joann Ludwig in 1953 in Chicago. She preceded him in death on September 2, 1998. Richard served his country in the United States Army from 1947-1952 and was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries sustained during the Korean War. Richard worked as a professional painter and decorator and later was employed as a captain for Wells Fargo Security until his retirement. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. Richard was also very crafty and enjoyed building things. He also liked taking trips to the casino. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Richard is survived by two daughters: Sheryl A. Freeman and Betty Jane Kraus; nine grandchildren: Jeniffer Layton, Jamie (Kenneth) Starkey, James (Jill) Layton, Adam Freeman, Dickie, Willie, and Greg Neil, and Ronnie and John Kraus; six great-grandchildren: Jordan Layton, James Layton, Mercedes and Kenneth Starkey, and Aubrey and Leah Layton; one brother, Jerry Neil; and one sister, Vera Kapler. He was preceded in death by his parents, step-father, William Quist, son, Richard J. Neil Jr. and two brothers, Bill Quist and Kenneth Neil. Graveside services will be held at a later date at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville, Illinois. Herman-Taylor Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Wisconsin Rapids, WI is assisting the family with arrangements.