Merritt E. Neal

January 1, 1927 ~ August 23, 2017
Merritt E. Neal, 89, loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, died Wednesday, August 23, 2017. A Kansas Cattleman and wheat farmer, he will always be remembered for his strong Christian faith, endearing laugh, Caldwell High School football, fifth grade boys Baptist Sunday School teacher, love for his Pure-Bred Polled Hereford Cattle, Oklahoma University Sooner Football, coaching Little League sports, and supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s sports and various activities. His military service (1953-55) in the U.S. Army, Corporal, Light and Heavy Weapon Infantry at Ft. Riley, KS, Ft. Benning, GA and Ft. Devens, MA, 74th Regimental Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Decorated: National Defense Service Medal, #1 Marksman in Regiment. Preceded in death by parents, Herbert G. and Abbie May Neal. Survived by wife, Vonnie Neal; son, Dave (Dana) Neal all of Wichita; grandchildren, Alisha (Jason) Illian, Shawna (Buck) Morris, Luke (Ivy) Neal; great-grandchildren, Reign, Sage, and Rogue Illian, Braxton, Corban, and Leah Morris, Hope and Sam Neal; and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be from 9:30 - 11:00 am, Tuesday, August 29, 2017, followed by Funeral Service at 11:00 am, Tuesday, August 29, 2017, both at Crossroads Baptist Church. Graveside Service will be at 3:00 pm, Tuesday, August 29, 2017, at Forest Park Cemetery, Anthony, KS. A memorial has been established with Crossroads Baptist Church Missions, 11441 E Central Ave, Wichita, KS, 67206 and Freedom Hooves Therapeutic Riding Center, 7303 E Harry, Wichita, KS 67207. Downing & Lahey Mortuary East.
Rest Merritt, until you hear at dawn, the low, clear reveille of God. Thank you for your service to this nation. U.S. Army.