Neal Van Houten

Neal Van Houten, 84, of Clarence, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025. He was born on July 22, 1941, in Clarence, Missouri, to the late James Franklin Van Houten and Florence Daisy Turner.
A lifelong resident of Clarence, Neal graduated from Clarence High School and married the love of his life, Maxine Liebhart, on July 19, 1964. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and community.
Neal was a farmer through and through--It was all he ever wanted to do. He loved the land, and he loved people. Known for his big smile, easy conversation and ability to visit for hours, Neal had a gift for putting others, young, and old at ease.
He served his community with dedication, holding roles on the Union Cemetery Board, the MFA Board, the Clarence Christian Church Board, and the Mercantile Bank Board. His generosity to others was steady and sincere.
Family was the cornerstone of Neal's life. He took great joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren, cherishing every moment and every visit. His warmth, humor, and love will be dearly missed.
Neal is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Maxine Van Houten; his children: David (Katie) Van Houten of Castle Rock, CO; Dawn Van Houten of St. Louis, MO; and Daniel (Marylynn) Van Houten of Clarence, MO. He was a proud grandfather to Neal Van Houten, Sam Van Houten, Parker Beckley, and Lilly Van Houten.
He is also survived by his three sisters: Joy (Lynn) Payne of Iowa, Karen Copenhaver of Boonville, MO, and Kathy (Wendall) Rufener of Clarence, MO.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James Franklin Van Houten and Florence Daisy Turner.
Funeral service will be held at 11:30 am on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at the Greening-Eagan-Hayes Funeral Home in Clarence, MO, followed with the burial in Union Cemetery, south of Clarence. Visitation will precede the funeral service starting at 9:30 am at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Union Cemetery.