Obituary of John Paul Neel

Current Tucson, AZ and longtime Chesterton, IN resident, John P Neel passed away at home, with his wife Roberta by his side on Friday February 10th, 2023, a few days after his 84th birthday. His faith and love of family were the pillars of his life.

Born, February 7, 1939, to Paul and Beulah Neel in Steubenville, Ohio where he was raised and met his wife of 62 years Roberta. After attending Texas Christian University for 1 year, he enlisted in the Marines. While in the Marines, he and Roberta were married and started a family. After completion of service from the Marines, they relocated to Chesterton, IN and began their life in 1961.

During 50 years of residency in Chesterton he worked for Bethlehem Steel (32 years), was an active member of the community including an elder at St. Johns United Church of Christ and President of State Park Little League. He enjoyed family activities including sports, theatre, and travel. John was an avid fan of Chesterton High and Indiana University Sports and spent many fall football weekends in Bloomington.

After an almost 30-year hiatus from pursuing a college degree he returned to Purdue North Central University culminating with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting.

In 2010 he and Roberta relocated to Tucson, Arizona to be near family. While in Tucson he was an active member of Casa Adobe’s Congregational Church.

He is survived by his wife Roberta, brother Wally and wife Sandy, sons Gregg, wife Beth and daughter Sarah of Portland, Oregon, John, wife Janet and son Ryan, daughter Samantha of Scottsdale, AZ and Matt, wife Teresa, son Cameron and daughter Olivia of Montgomery, Texas.

A memorial service will be held on April 15, 2023, at Casa Adobes Congregational Church for family and friends. In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org or Casas Adobes. Please visit Adair Funeral Home to share a message.