Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Tim Neal Obituary
Timothy R. Neal, age 73 of Thedford, passed away on Friday, August 29th. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Thomas County Fairgrounds from 2:00 to 6:00 pm. In keeping with Tim's wishes, cremation was chosen. Memorials are suggested to the Thedford Area Community Foundation, Thomas County Library, and Thedford High School Teammates Program.
Tim was born on April 6, 1952, to Kenneth and Betty (Jameson) Neal in North Platte, Nebraska. He grew up in Thedford, Nebraska, and graduated in 1970. In high school, Tim worked for Louis Brys Well Service and for Sandy Larsen at the Lumber Yard. He enjoyed the latter, purchasing the lumber yard with his dad in 1975. Tim owned the lumber yard through February of 2023, when he sold the property to Dave Masek. It was important to him that he sold the business to the right person, and that it stayed open for the community.
Tim married Deonna (Rickerson) on November 11, 1970, and together they welcomed a son and a daughter, Danny Lee and Marcy Lin. Both enjoyed working at the lumber yard alongside their dad and learned many things from him. Jessie and Dylan Andersen also worked for Tim at the lumber yard while in high school.
Tim had a love for the outdoors, finding peace and joy in his time at his cabin. Whether it was hunting, fishing, or tending the property, he took great pride in keeping everything in its place. Tim enjoyed reading and was a loyal patron of the Thomas County Library. He loved Husker football and volleyball and never missed a game. He followed his grandkids' sports and outdoor adventures, always anxious to hear how they did. Tim had a sweet tooth, and his granddaughter Jessie loved to bake him his favorites. The empty pan and a note let Jessie know when it was time to make another batch.
Tim is survived by his children, Danny (Lisa) Neal of Amherst and Marcy (Chad) Andersen of Thedford, as well as five grandchildren: Colton Neal, Jasper Neal, Cooper Neal, Jessie Andersen, and Dylan (Jacey) Andersen. He is also survived by his brothers Lyle (Beverly) Neal of Lincoln, NE, Marlyn (Sheryl) Neal of Cypress, TX, and sisters LaVon Harwager of Arnold and Kenya (Rick) Johnson of Broken Bow, NE.
Tim was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Betty Neal.
542 South 9th Ave., Broken Bow, NE 68822
People and places connected with Tim
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Tim Neal
Make a Donation
in Tim Neal's name
How to support Tim's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Tim Neal's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more