Steve G. Neal

I never got to know my uncle I've heard so many good things about him from my dad (Gary Neal) and my other uncle (Dan Neal). I feel so bad for my uncle and my dad they where Steves brothers. Steve, you will always be loved.

I knew Steve as a fellow journalism school grad at the University of Oregon as well as our involvement in the school's fraternity system. I only talked to him once since graduation, so I didn't know him as well as others. But in college he was smart and focused, more than most people at that age. I actually thought that he would run for Governor or Oregon one day. I always kept up with his journalism work, and admired him for the books he wrote. Journalism has lost a good guy. My condolences...

Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this time.We are Chicago Tribune readers,but would read the Times for Steve's stuff.He will be fondly remembered.

I knew Steve through the wonderful stories his brother, Gary, shared with us at NextCard. Even though we never met him, we were all so proud of Steve and his many gifts and accomplishments. My heartfelt sympathies go out to the family, please know that you are in my prayers.

Sue,Erin and Shannon: I have known and loved Steve since his birth. As his teenage aunt, I was often his babysitter. His wit and charm even as a toddler entertained my friends endlessly. His accomplishments throughout his life are very great, and he carried them out with the highest of integrity. My family will miss "Cousin Steve" so very much. He did have a wonderful life.

My condolences to the Neal family. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Steve Neal, his brother Gary, my former employer, spoke highly of him. May your wonderful memories of him make you smile...always. You are all in my prayers.

The first time I ever heard the expression "Have a nice life," it came from Steve Neal one night as I was leaving the Chicago Tribune's Washington bureau for the Black Steer and he was headed to the Class Reunion. "Have a nice life, paly," he said. Well Steve Neal had a very nice life. A fine family, a glorious job and a body of work very few writers ever even approach. It was far too short.

I am project manager for the restoration of the Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home near Libertyville, Illinois. Steve was on the Advisory Committee for this project. But Steve was even more central than that. He was the prime mover in securing the $2 million grant from the State of Illinois for the restoration of the Stevenson Home. Steve's involvement with the Stevenson project was typical for him. It must have been low on his radar screen, yet he was always 100% involved in our discussions. I...

As a lover of politics and history Steve Neal was a model of what a journalist and historian should be. I only saw him in person twice; at a book reading and once riding the train to Hinsdale but I always admired his clear writing and his modesty. He was quite a man.