James "Jim" D. Neel

Jim passed on peacefully at his home in Lakewood, Colorado on Friday October 2, 2020, at the age of 78. He was surrounded by his family who loved and supported him as he courageously battled cancer. He maintained a positive, fun-loving attitude and enjoyed time with family and friends throughout his life. Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was caring, giving and always supportive of his family and to all whom he met along the way.

He enlisted in the Army in 1961 for 3 years. He was part of Company A, Sergeant. He spent one year in Korea and the remainder of his service was spent in Washington DC. He was in the Honor Guard and worked at the Officers Club, the Pentagon and the White house. He protected JFK and was the first Honor Guard as the President walked down the stairs from the plane. Jim was a sharpshooter. His duty ended in 1964 and he returned home to Colorado to be with his family.

Jim worked at Napa Auto Parts – Genuine Parts Company in Denver, Colorado, where he met his wife to be, Linda. Jim and Linda married in August of 1964, and recently celebrated 56 years of marriage. He then went to work for Coors Anheuser Bush of Golden, Colorado. Then onto the United States Postal Service as a letter carrier for 37 years and retired in 2001. His mail route was the Old Villa Italia Shopping Mall in Lakewood, Colorado. After retirement he took a position in the mail room for the City of Lakewood, eventually retiring after 13 years of service for the city.

Jim enjoyed playing softball and being a Coach for over 40 years. Many of his men’s and co-ed softball teams throughout the years were very successful. Many weeknights and weekends where spent playing league and tournament games and allowed him to play and coach all over Colorado. He later coached a men’s 50 and older softball team, that went on to win 3 World Titles. Many of his most cherished friendships came about because of softball and coaching.

He was a loyal Denver Broncos fan since 1966. He attended 400+ games during his lifetime.

Jim loved his many dogs.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Neel, son, James Neel and his wife, Pam and two adoring grandchildren: Haley and Logan, and his daughter, Julie Neel.

Due to Covid restrictions, there will be no memorial service. Jim’s final resting place will be Olinger Crown Hill Mortuary & Cemetery, 7777 W. 29th Ave. in Wheatridge, CO. We hope to have a celebration of Jim’s Life in 2021. Bring your cooler!

Share your favorite story or memory and Condolences may be offered at www.diginitymemorial.com

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Cancer Association in memory of James D Neel at 9450 SW Gemini Drive #38269 Beaverton, Oregon 97008-7105 or by visiting www.kidneycancer.org