Robert (Bob) Lee Neal, 77

Robert (Bob) Lee Neal passed away December 22 at the Hospice House of North Idaho, surrounded by family.

He was born October 30, 1936 in Coeur d'Alene, ID to Garland and Dorothy (Feely) Neal. He was a lifetime resident of the area. On June 6, 1957 he married Leona Beal; they shared 56 happy years of marriage and he loved telling everyone! Together they had four children: Kandy (Jim) Tenney, Robert "Bobby" (Lynn) Neal, Randy (Jill) Neal, and Karen (Phil) Wilhelm. He was a family man and took great pride in his wife, children and grandchildren.

He graduated from Post Falls High School in 1955. Every month he got together with classmates (The 55 Cadillacs) for lunch. He worked in the sawmill for 40 years and loved his job. He especially loved working on the tug boat moving logs down the river to the mill. He loved going to all the sports for children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, riding his four wheeler and traveling. He was known for his love of horses, and took great pride in the two mules he raised from birth.

He is survived by his wife and children, ten grandchildren: Tim (Nissa) Herbert, Wade Herbert, Mandi (JR) Wagenius, Robert "BJ" Neal, Taylor Neal, Cassandra Neal, Monica Douglas, Zac (Haylee) Wilhelm, Josh Wilhelm, and Kallie Neal. Also three step grandsons: Chris, Andy (Sunny), and Jason (Alisa) Tenney. He had 21 great grandchildren, with three more to join the family soon. Also several nieces and nephews, and Spanky (his dog).

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers Earl and Laverne Neal.

The family would like to thank Hospice of North Idaho (especially Teresa and Lori), and all of the doctors and nurses of Kootenai Cancer Center. Dad received the best of care from them all.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations go to Hospice of North Idaho. A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 28, 3 p.m., at English Funeral Chapel, 1700 N. Spokane St., Post Falls, ID. Please sign Bob's guest registry at www.englishfuneralchapel.com