Dan Albert Neff, 73

Dan Albert Neff, 73, passed away peacefully May 8, 2014. Dan was born on December 14, 1940, in Payson City, Utah, to Raymond Neff and Mary Cole Neff. He was one of 13 children. 

At 17, Dan met his love, Vickie Tolman. They were married in 1960. Soon after, they welcomed two sons, Brook and Todd.

For the next 20 years the family traveled the world with Dan’s job. Living in places like Indonesia, Korea, Saudi Arabia, Dubai and Venezuela. They then decided to put down roots in Harrison, Idaho, and purchased Carlin Bay Resort on Lake Coeur d’Alene.

After selling the resort, they bought a home in Harrison on the rim rock looking out over the lake and created many memories over 30 years with kids, grandchildren and many family friends. 

In 1986, Dan and Vickie bought Lake City Radiator & Auto Air Conditioning in Coeur d’Alene. Together, with their sons, they have operated the business ever since. Creating a stable source of income for his sons, as well as having the whole family close by, was one of Dan’s proudest accomplishments and his legacy. He loved having his family work together and stay close.

In 2004, Dan and Vickie moved into town to be closer to family and friends. Their home was the hub of family activity and the place where memories were made at each holiday, birthday party, pool party and BBQ. Dan lost his bride Vickie suddenly in 2007, after over 50 wonderful years together. In 2008, he met Kathy Behm. She brought him love, happiness, companionship, and strength while he battled his awful illness. Although their time was short together, she holds a special place in his heart and his family can’t thank her enough for loving him.

Dan was a man of wisdom, integrity, and kindness; someone who you cherished receiving advice from. He was always there to lend his ear and help anyone in need. Dan had a giving heart, and a smile and laugh that were infectious. He was lucky to have lifelong friends that just became part of the family. His passing will leave a hole that is impossible to fill. Dan will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Dan was preceded in death by his wife, Vickie, both parents, and 10 brothers and sisters. He is survived by his sons: Brook (Sally), and Todd (Velva); partner, Kathy Behm; daughter in-law, Jan Pollard; grandchildren: Rachael Neff-Shelley, Brandon Neff, Benjamin Neff, Tyler Neff, Ashleigh Neff, and Daytona Neff; great grandchildren: Parker, Lillian, Abigail, Taylor and Breckyn; brother, Gene Neff (Gloria); sister, Carol Hawkins (Bob); numerous nieces, nephews and countless friends.

A celebration of life will be held this summer. English Funeral Chapel of Coeur d'Alene has been entrusted to handle final arrangements. Please visit Dan's online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.