Neil Joseph Lemme

1944 - 2025

Neil Joseph Lemme passed away September 6, 2025 in Tucson, Arizona, he was 81 years old. Neil leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories in the hearts of all who knew him.

Born on May 20, 1944, in Highland Park, Illinois, Neil was the eldest son of Harry and Mary (Natta) Lemme. He met his wife Jane (Boyko) in Cleveland, Ohio. After marrying, the couple moved to Neil's hometown of Highland Park where they raised their two children, Neil 'JR' Lemme and Stephanie (Lemme) Healy. Neil was a devoted father and proud grandfather to Ella and Hudson Healy, whose lives he enriched with warmth, humor, and wisdom.

Neil graduated from Highland Park High School and attended Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He owned TaskMasters,a contracting company in both Chicago, IL and Pentwater, MI. In 1999, Jane and Neil moved to Pentwater and opened Gardener's Folly, a resort lifestyle store. Neil was actively involved in the community and could be found holding court with a group of friends at breakfast where he was affectionately known as the 'Godfather'.

Neil worked hard to promote Pentwater and its business community. He served as Executive Director of the Pentwater Chamber of Commerce and was a board member of the Downtown Development Authority. He also chaired several charitable organizations, raising money for the Pentwater School and Hospice.

Neil enjoyed golf and sailing aboard his family's sailboat, the 'Eclipse'. He was also a talented amateur photographer. His family treasures his photo collection which is a window into the world as Neil saw it - full of light, love and wonder.

In retirement, Neil and Jane moved to Tucson, Arizona to be closer to their daughter and grandchildren. They were members of St. Pious X Catholic Church where Neil was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #10762.

Neil will be remembered for the sparkle in his eyes, his warm smile, his quick wit and unwavering devotion to family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Jane; son JR Lemme (Candy); daughter Stephanie (Lemme) Healy (Tim); grandchildren Ella and Hudson Healy; and brothers Michael Lemme (Valerie) and Peter Lemme. Neil's family will keep his legacy alive with memories and stories of a life well lived.

A memorial Mass will be said on Saturday, November 15, at 11 a.m. at St. Pious X Catholic Church in Tucson, Arizona. A celebration of life will take place at later date in Pentwater, Michigan.