Neal McNeil III

1973 - 2016

Neal McNeil III May 20, 1973 - February 14, 2016 Solana Beach Son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and dear friend. Neal McNeil III was all those but so much more.Neal touched so many people's lives and was cherished by those he called friends and family. Whether it was his radiant smile that lit up a room, his intoxicating enthusiasm and passion for living life or his steadfast belief in his family, he impacted people in a way that will forever be missed.He was unique in his approach to all things. Always striving to better himself, he believed that each person had enormous potential. His love of life and pursuit of excellence drove him to pursue many endeavors.In his short forty-two years of life he accomplished much. From building and piloting aircraft, to founding and managing a successful company, he wouldn't just do something to do it; he would dedicate himself to it and be the best.When his attention wasn't given to his many passions, both personal and professional, he could be found with his family whom he loved above all else. He was a proud son who wanted nothing more than to make his mother happy. He was a protective brother, best and trusted confidante to his sister and a doting uncle who was always available for a hug and a smile. The world is a lonelier place without him. Neal is survived by his very close knit family: his mother, Judy Land; beloved sister, Tahnee Hopf; and brother-in-law, Geoff Hopf. He was favorite uncle to his adored nieces, Scarlette and Savannah, age 8 and 6. At least once a month he spent time with his life coaches, Aunt Jeri Walz and Uncle Rod Walz, and his cousins, Wes Walz and Tyler Walz. Neal also had family out of town: his Uncle Jim Welch and Aunt Jeanne Welch; and cousins, Hannah Erbele, Dan Brown, Kym Laube and Jonas Welch. His extended family included: his half-sisters, so important in his childhood, Nichole McNeil (Leonard) Smith and Lisa McNeil Huse; he was Godfather to his nephew, Trent Huse; and loved his nieces, Jessica Huse and Kaili Smith; and nephews, Michael and Nicholas Smith. He also called many of his close friends brother, as that was the kind of relationship he had with them.Please join us March 4, 2016, at 2pm for his memorial. It will be held at the Fairbanks Ranch Country Club in Rancho Santa Fe.In lieu of flowers or gifts, please donate to one of his causes at: www.nealmcneiliii.com. Please sign the guest book online at legacy.com/obituaries/ ranchosantafereview .