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B.R. 'Russ' Neathery
Evansville, Ind.
B.R. "Russ" (Uncle Ray) Neathery, of Evansville, Ind., joined his beloved wife, Helen, at 2 a.m. Monday morning. He left this earth in peace from his home in time to make it to the heavenly alter for their 64th wedding anniversary, which is today August 29.
Born December 1, 1917, one of seven brothers and sisters, Russ started in the bowling business in 1945 in Henderson after returning home from World War II.
Russ and Helen purchased Franklin Lanes on Evansville's West Side from Joe O'Daniel and Kenny Kent. The couple owned and operated the lanes from 1956 to 1985, building it into the most bowled upon 20-lane house in the United States. After retiring, they sold the business to life-long friends, David King and Walt Hatcher.
He was president of the Evansville Bowling Proprietors several times, was president of Indiana Bowling Proprietors two terms, and a nationally known member of the Bowling Proprietors Association of America for 30 years, serving on numerous committees. He was inducted into the Evansville Bowling Hall of fame in 1982.
An avid sportsman, Russ was the first Evansville bowler to average 200 for a season in 1954, bowled a 300 game (back in the day when it was a near impossible accomplishment), and won the State Doubles Championship with Jim "Spider" Vaughn in 1962. On the golf course he had at least one hole-in-one and shot his age numerous times well into his late 80's.
Russ was a staunch University of Kentucky fan.
He was a navy veteran, serving in the pacific fleet, a member of the West Side Optimist Club, VFW post 1114, the Evansville Kennel Club, and the Evansville Country Club. He was also a proud Kentucky Colonel, following in the footsteps of his father, the honorable Reverend O.T. Neathery.
A devout Christian soul, Russ was a member of the Salem United Methodist Church in Evansville and the Petrie Memorial United Methodist Church in his hometown of Elkton, Ky.
He is survived by nieces, Rosemary Berry and Joyce Mann; nephews, Tilford Neathery, Billy T. Reiley and Gregory Oreskovich, and their families, including his two loving "grandchildren" Gabriel Ray and Lukas Oreskovich.
The family would like to acknowledge a loving thank you to his Guardian Angel Beryl Ashby, her husband, Don Ashby and granddaughter, Michelle Hamer who cared for Russ for 17 years and helped him keep his promise to his wife, Helen, to never leave her side until death do they part. Also to Kalah Street for bringing joy, laughter and the Love of Christ into his life and heart. And fellow Optimist, Ed Derringe, for remaining until the last days - in true Optimist fashion - a devoted friend.
The family also extends their deepest gratitude to his dedicated Home Instead caregiver team, in particular Chester, Sue M, Beccy, Ruth, Laura, Jason and Michael, who maintained his comfort with unequaled care and compassion and lots of foot rubs. God bless each and every one of you.
A Memorial Service is planned for October 11, 2013, at Pierre Funeral Home on West Franklin Street. In lieu of flowers, and in recognition of Uncle Ray's life dedicated to Evansville's youth, through his youth bowling programs, the Optimist Club friends of youth, the funding of two USI scholarships and other services committed to instilling values in young people across the area, please make contributions to the Boys & Girls Club of Evansville.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
To the Neathery Family, my condolences. Russ was one of the nicest man I have ever known. I moved to Indiana to manage the Meadows Bowl in the late 60's and became involved in the state proprietors and served with Russ on numerous committees. I, to was a president of the association. Russ was always there to help anytime anyone needed help. A nicer gentleman I have never met. The world and the bowlers have lost a great man. Marlin Milligan
Marlin Milligan
August 30, 2013
As a young bowling proprietor back in the 70's and 80's,
Russ was one of my heros. He and Helen were the best.
Jerry Hindel
August 29, 2013
ON BEHALF OF THE COMRADES AND SISTERS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF INDIANA YOU HAVE OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR LOVED ONE AND OUR DEPARTED COMRADE.OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL.SINCERELY VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF INDIANA STATE CHAPLAIN KEISTON R.HOLLOWAY
KEISTON HOLLOWAY
August 29, 2013
What a sweet and loving man. I will always remember his and Aunt Helen's kindness to me. Though they weren't really my Aunt and Uncle (I am named after Helen as my mother and her were very close friends), I was always welcome in their home and they alwasy treated me as though I were family. I remember how much they adored each other; and though I am sad for his remaining family I am soo happy they are together again and holding each other close. Much Love, Helen Peck
August 29, 2013
Rest in peace Russ. I feel so blessed to have had the chance to know you. Such a kind and gentle man and you will remain in my heart forever.
Kathy Hamer
August 28, 2013
forever in our memories, and in our hearts....enjoy your forever home in Heaven with Helen....Happy Anniversary!
Sue Meyer
August 28, 2013
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