Mr. John S. Neal, 68, of Galesburg, Illinois, died unexpectedly at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, Illinois.
He was born August 31, 1956, in Galesburg to Carl L. “Buck” and Jessie A. (McCarthy) Neal.
Surviving is his brother, Jim (and Ray Boyd) Neal of Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, an uncle, Larry McCarthy of Galesburg, and several cousins that were like siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents.
John graduated from Galesburg High School in 1974. He was a Switchman/Brakeman for Burlington Northern/Santa Fe Railroad since May of 1976. He retired after 40 years in May of 2016. John was an avid Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, Boston Celtics, and Illini fan. He enjoyed bowling and racquetball and loved playing golf, especially at Oak Run Golf Course.
Cremation will be accorded. A memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Sunday, May 4, 2025, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. Chaplain Jordan Knight will officiate. Private burial will be at a later date in Memorial Park Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorials may be made to the Knox County Humane Society in Galesburg. Online condolences may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
