William Robert Neel, Jr., in his 80th year, died on October 23, 2017, at UPMC Presbyterian hospital with family at his side.
Born at home in Downieville, PA to William R. and Kathyrn (McKinney) Neel September 22, 1937. He was avid fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Penn State Football where he attended university for Engineering. Bill lived a full life most would never see. His passion for justice led him to run for several public offices including U.S. Congress. He participated in and led a variety of civil and women’s rights and anti-war actions, and he had a never-ending kindness to help others in need. After retiring from Armco he taught electrical circuitry and was an electrical inspector.
Bill is survived by his wife Nancy Orr Neel, who he married in 1964, his son Kevin (Satarupa) of San Mateo, CA, his daughter Erin (Beau) of Oakland, CA, and eight siblings: Pat Lamberson, West Grove PA, Nikki (Rich) Weaver, Mars PA, Linda (Larry) Fox, Valencia, PA; Richard (Nancy) Neel, West Newton; Betty (Bob) Fox, Butler; Joyce Neel, Butler, Kim Neel, Butler; Susie (Mike) Brashear, Saxonburg; and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He is preceded in death by brother-in-law and friend, Bob Lamberson.
Friends will be received at Young Funeral Home, Ltd., 127 W. Jefferson St., Butler, on Thursday, October 26, 2017 from 2-4 & 6-8PM.
Services will be held at the funeral home on Friday, October 27th at 11AM..
Interment in the Mars Cemetery, Mars, PA.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of Bill’s favorite organizations: Thomas Merton Center, Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, WQED, or ACLU.