Marlin D. Neel, 92, of Warren, PA, died on Monday, January 30, 2017 at Warren Manor Nursing Home, Warren, PA. Born on September 12, 1924 in Brookville, PA, he was the son of the late Charles and Hallie Thrush Neel. On May 12, 1947 he married the former Nina J. Bish who survives. Marlin attended school in Brookville, PA and had served with the U. S. Army during World War II as a drill sergeant and with the Military Police. He was employed for 36 years at Warren State Hospital as a psychiatric technician, retiring in 1983. He was instrumental in the development of the State Hospital’s Federal Credit Union where he served as treasurer. Marlin was a member of the former First Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. He was longtime member of the First Church of God in Warren, PA. He was a member of Gideon’s International, Full Gospel Businessmen International, and helped with the formation of the Warren County Jail Ministry, where he served on the board of directors. In his early years Marlin enjoyed archery, hunting, fishing, and golf. Surviving in addition to his wife are 2 sons – David Neel of Utah, and Stephen Neel of Warren, PA, 1 daughter – Marlene Davidson of Warren, PA, 10 Grandchildren, including Therese Frank of Erie, PA, Matthew Davidson of Warren, PA, Bryce Neel of Warren, PA and Michelle Neel of Tennessee, numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Marline was preceded in death by 2 brothers – Charles Andrew Neel and Laddie L. Neel, 2 Sisters – Georgia Swineford and Phyllis O’Neill, and an infant brother – Gilbert Neel. Friends may call from 6-8pm on Thursday, February 2, 2017 at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA. Funeral and committal services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday at the First Church of God, 1111 Madison Avenue, Warren, PA, with Pastor Bill Hargenrader officiating. Full military rites will be conducted by members of the Clarendon/Sheffield V.F.W. Military Honors Detail and U.S. Army personnel. Interment will be in Warren County Memorial Park. Those wishing to place a memorial may do so through the First Church of God or to Gideon’s International, P. O. Box 140800, Nashville, TN, 37214. Email condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com
My deepest heartfelt condolences to your family. When my ex and I first moved to Warren in 1992, Mr. Neel was one of the first people we met. He was so kind and went out of his way to make us feel welcome. Over the years, he became a friend. When we were going through our divorce, he was a comfort and confidant to both of us, without judgment or taking a side. Over the ensuing years, he and I didn’t see each other regularly. But we would run into each other on occasion and have a wonderful conversation. He was very proud of all of you, as he never failed to update me on the family exploits. But the thing I will remember the most is the fact that he took an interest in me. I always valued his wisdom and guidance no matter the subject. If I can become half the man that Marlin was, I will be very lucky. Rest easy my dear friend. I will always cherish our friendship.
Nina and family. I am so sorry for the loss of Marlin. He will be missed by many. He has many great rewards in Heaven. Oh, to see Jesus.! I have thought of you and him many times. God’s peace and comfort to you.