John M. Neel

1929 - 2013

John Marshall Neel, 84, of South Windsor, beloved husband of June (Grieger) Neel, died peacefully on Tuesday, December 24, 2013, at Manchester Memorial Hospital. He was born on May 27, 1929, in Fayetteville, WV, son of the late Rev. Wilton C. and M. Floride (Faires) Neel. John was a graduate of Gastonia High School in North Carolina with the Class of 1947. He went on to attend college for two years at the University of North Carolina, prior to entering the U.S. Navy. John served as a carrier pilot with the U.S. Navy in the Antisubmarine Squadron 26, during the Korean War. Upon returning from active duty he continued in the reserves, retiring as a Commander with his own squadron. He went to Colgate University to complete his education, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa. A resident of South Windsor for over 50 years, he retired from Hamilton Standard, UTC, where he worked as an engineer. A kind, caring and devoted husband, father, brother and grandfather, he will be greatly missed. Along with his wife June, of over 61 years, he leaves his son, John C. "Scooter" Neel of FL; his daughters, Jennifer June Neel of NJ and Melissa Beth Neel of NC; his sister, Carolyn Tutwiler of Rock Hill SC; three grandchildren, Matthew C. Mann, Brandon M. Weaver and Jessica N. Weaver; a special friend and fiancé of Jennifer, JD DeSantis of NJ and several nieces and nephews. His family will receive friends on Sunday, December 29, 2013, from 5 to 7 p.m., at the Samsel & Carmon Funeral Home, 419 Buckland Rd., South Windsor; followed by a Memorial Service to begin at 7 p.m., with Military Honors. Burial will be private at the request of his family. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society 701 Russell Rd., Newington, CT 06111 and/or the American Cancer Society 825 Brook St., I-91 Tech Ctr., Rocky Hill, CT 06067. Please visit us at www.carmonfuneralhome.com for online condolences and guest book.