Published: July 02, 2009 11:13 pm      

Robert Rodney “Rod” Neil

CHRISMAN — Robert Rodney “Rod” Neil, 81 of Chrisman died peacefully in his sleep, at home, at 11:45 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, 2009. He spent his last days surrounded by family and friends. Mr. Neil was born July 30, 1927, in Danville to Howard L. Neil and Alma Fern (Pinkston) Neil. He married Ruby Fern Lucas on Feb. 13, 1949, in Danville.

Mr. Neil was a member of the Chrisman Christian Church for over 50 years and served as a Deacon, Sunday School teacher, board member, elder, and treasurer as well as on the worship and praise team. He was a World War II veteran serving in the United States Navy, Pacific Theatre, as a Seaman, First Class and was a member of the VFW. He had a long career in sales at Sears in Danville.

Mr. Neil, a friend to all, was known for his warmth and humor and commitment to his Lord and Church. He was an avid reader, enjoying westerns, history and Christian studies. He had a love for the water which took him on several boating trips with friends along rivers throughout the Midwest. He valued a simple life, expressed through fellowship with his Church family and activities with friends and loved ones.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ruby Neil; one son, Mark (Julie) Neil of Danville; one daughter, Cathy (Bruce) Loeppke of Sarasota, Fla.; one sister, Mary Marjorie Lehwald of Battle Creek, Mich.; and four grandchildren: Samantha, Natalie, Brianne, and Benjamin Neil.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and three brothers. Leo, Bill and Jack Neil.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Sunday, July 5, 2009, at Krabel Funeral Home in Chrisman A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 6, 2009, at Krabel Funeral Home in Chrisman, with Pastor Kenney Bass officiating. Interment will follow at Woodland Cemetery in Chrisman.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to the Chrisman Christian Church.