David Reed Neal

July 30, 1948 – December 16 2023

David Neal, or better known as "Uncle Dave" by his family, had a passion for planes, trains and fishing boats. He was a licensed pilot, an avid model railroader, and a champion fisherman. These hobbies introduced Dave to many of his lifelong friends. Alice, his wife of 42 years, often felt she took a back seat to these interests but she was always first in his heart. She proceeded him in death by four years. Although he missed her terribly, he received overwhelming support and love from friends and family. He said after her death that he missed her companionship the most in the evenings when they would usually come together for dinner and share stories of their day.

During their many years together, Alice and Dave enjoyed travel to places near and far including Paris, Virgin Islands, New York, Chicago, Phoenix and Hawaii. One of their favorite places was Disney World, and specifically Country Bear Jamboree. They shared that love with many of their nieces and nephews and was just one example of the way they spoiled them rotten.

Dave was always ready to lend a helping hand driving people to appointments, airport delivering, sitting with sick friends and doing whatever he could to be a helpful friend. Being mechanically inclined, Dave was always willing to lend his expertise in fixing any problem someone may have. Being a friend of Dave's was a two-way street. He loved helping others and appreciated when others helped him.

Dave was born in West Frankfort Illinois, to a military family that moved to many locations when he was younger. He spent a lot of time on his grandparents' farm. After finishing high school Dave joined the Air Force, launching his career in airplane mechanics. This career path led him to jobs at Ozark Airlines, TWA and American Airlines. He eventually became a mechanic instructor.

Even though he was experiencing some health issues in his later years, he was still able to keep up a busy social life; traveling, dining out with family and friends, working on his beloved trains, and playing cards. Close family members often commented that he needed a social secretary. In his last week Dave was able to enjoy many of these activities. Dave passed peacefully in his sleep on December 16th 2023.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Lydia's House or the Bridgeton Recreation Center , 4201 Fee Fee Road
Bridgeton, MO 63044.

Visitation Thursday, December 21, 4:00 - 8:00 PM at Collier's Funeral Home, 3400 N. Lindbergh Blvd (St. Ann). Funeral Service Friday, December 22, 1:00 PM at Collier's Funeral Home. Interment at Jefferson Barracks at a later date.