Joseph Edward Neel

Joseph "Joe" Neel, 78, passed away on March 4, 2025, in Seattle, Washington. Born on June 2, 1946, in Pasco, Washington, Joe lived a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication to his family and community.

Joe's early years were marked by a passion for athletics. He attended Fruitland Elementary and Kennewick High School, where he excelled in sports as a Kennewick Lion, playing football and running track. His talent on the track earned him a Junior Olympic medal for hurdles. He continued his education at Central Washington University, where fate introduced him to the love of his life, Vicki, during the first week of school. Their bond grew into a lifelong partnership of 59 years. Joe later earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Martin's University.

A dedicated professional, Joe served as a State Farm Insurance agent for 46 years. He was more than just an agent; he was a trusted neighbor and friend to many in his community. His integrity and kindness left a lasting impact on those he worked with and served.

Joe's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Vicki Neel; daughters Holly Miranda (Michael) and Jennifer Ferrandi (Justin); grandchildren Nick and Max Miranda, Tanner (Jamie) Ferrandi and Chloe Ferrandi; and great-granddaughter Georgia Ferrandi. He also leaves behind his siblings Carol Dunham, Sallie Davis, and Harry Neel. And last, but not least, his treasured cocker spaniel Lucy joined him just 3 weeks after his passing.

Beyond his career and family life, Joe had many passions that brought him happiness. He coached his daughters' early softball teams and spent years coaching youth football for his grandson Max's State Farm Bears teams. His love for sailing led him to race his J24 sailboat, "Graffiti," alongside his son-in-law Michael. As a member of the South Sound Sailing Society, he served as race chair and built a reputation for having both a fast boat and a skilled crew that won numerous races over the years.

Joe had an undeniable green thumb, growing at least a dozen large tomato plants each summer and tending to his greenhouse filled with flowering maples. His love for nature extended to birdwatching and photography. A voracious reader, he especially enjoyed the *Master and Commander* series and books on history. He was also an avid sports fan who cheered passionately for the UW Huskies and Seattle Seahawks. Music played an important role in his life-his tastes spanned from jazz to rock and roll, with favorites including The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, and Elton John. In recent months, he discovered a new creative outlet in watercolor painting.

Joe had a quick wit and dry sense of humor that endeared him to those around him-he especially loved Monty Python's comedy. His happiest moments were spent in his beautiful yard with family, barbecuing and sharing laughter. He cherished traditions deeply, particularly those surrounding Christmas. From collecting Radko ornaments to decorating the house with garlands, bows and poinsettias, he embraced every aspect of the holiday season. His famous Christmas Eve prime rib and his mother's crab cocktail were staples of family gatherings, along with the unmistakable aroma of turkey roasting in the oven as he prepared what was known as the most incredible gravy for mashed potatoes.

Joe's legacy is one of love, dedication, humor, and tradition-a life well-lived that will continue to inspire those who knew him. His family will honor him by carrying on the traditions he held dear. May his memory bring comfort to all who loved him.

We will be honoring Joe with a celebration of his life at 3:00 pm on May 31, 2025 at the Heritage Room in downtown Olympia. Address is: 604 Water St. SW, Olympia, WA 98501.