Ernest L. Neu

Ernest L. Neu

August 19, 1915 - March 21, 2012

Ernie Neu passed away peacefully March 21, 2012 at his Redondo Beach home. Ernie is survived by his loving wife and partner of more than 66 years, Janet; daughters, Helene and Joyce; and a cousin, Hansi Keaton. A resident of the South Bay for more than 65 years, Ernie was born in Frankfurt, Germany, studied chemical engineering at universities in France and emigrated to the U.S. in August 1938 where he settled in New Orleans. He soon met Janet, a Louisiana native, who became the love of his life. In 1942, Ernie enlisted in the U.S. Army and spent the war years in Europe as a medic, writing to Janet everyday. Upon his honorable discharge, he received his U.S. naturalization papers. Janet and Ernie married in February 1946 and moved to Southern California. Ernie traveled internationally for his work and had friends on five continents. Ernie was proud of being an American and kept abreast of political developments; he enjoyed lively debates with his friends and family. Janet and Ernie were founding members of the reform Jewish congregation, Temple Menorah, and Ernie was a lifetime member of the American Chemical Society and the American Society for Chemical Engineers; he had many patents to his name. In his last years, the glaucoma that had been kept at bay took his eyesight. Until the end, however, Ernie was upbeat with a sly sense of humor and much love for his family and friends. His caregiver, Elmo, became an indispensable friend and aide to Ernie in his final years. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 23 at 2:00 p.m. at Green Hills Cemetery in Rancho Palos Verdes (Parkview Terrace Mausoleum). In lieu of flowers, a contribution to a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Please sign the guestbook at www.dailybreeze.com/obits.