Edward L. Neau

Edward L. Neau, age 89, was invited to heaven January 15, 2023. He was preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of 67 years, Darlene. Edward is survived by his sister, Lenore Kuchera; his 3 children, Lori Neau, Michael Neau, and Teri (William) Baumgartner;  his 4 grandchildren, Michael (Katie) Neau Jr., Joshua Neau, Andrew Neau and Ashley Johnson; and 3 great-grandchildren Evan, Kyle and Aubry Neau.

Edward was born June 23, 1933, on a farm in Rice Lake, Wisconsin.  Hunting and fishing were a way of life, music and sports gave him purpose and drive. Those who new Edward, understood that his mind was always in motion- thinking, planning, and strategizing.  He graduated from Rice Lake Wisconsin High School in 1951- and it is no wonder that he was voted “Class Intellectual”.

Edward served in the U.S. Air Force from 1953-1961.  He worked as an airplane mechanic with the C130 Hercules research/cargo aircraft. In 1961, Edward began a 16 year career with Dynalectron Corporation- Aerospace.  Dynalectron contracted to work with NASA Aircraft Operations Division.  Edward spent 10 years contracted with NASA.  His assignments included Field Team Services, Project Administrator of F105 “look alike” program, Louisiana Facility Contracts Manager, Travis Air Force Base C-124 Iran program, and finally Branch Manager of NASA Manned Space Center- overseeing the Lunar Landing Researchand Training Vehicles.  After leaving contract work with NASA, Edward moved his family to Ft. Worth, TX to work at Dynalectron’s Corporate Contracts Headquarters. Edward finished off his career working as Director of Contracts for Honeywell in Phoenix, AZ for 11 years.

Edward was a great husband and father.  He met Darlene while at Edwards Air Force Base.  He had Darlene “hooked”, when he walked out of his barracks- shirtless. They married in 1955.  Edward was proud that he was able to provide for his family, and that they did not have to struggle as he had growing up.  He continued his college education while working full-time.  Edward earned his Law Degree from La Salle University at age 35, and his Management degree from TCU at the age of 41.

Edwards career included traveling throughout the world.  Upon his retirement, he continued to travel.  Edward and Darlene travelled across the USA for 5 years in their RV to see all the beauty that our own country has to offer.  When he hung up his traveling shoes, Edward put his energy into living a fun filled life of relaxation: tennis, golfing, woodworking, playing poker, taking excellent care of Darlene, being a grandfather, and occasional babysitter.

Edward has reunited with Darlene at Heaven’s door.  He is most certainly holding her hand, continuing once again to take care of her, and happy that they will now be together for all eternity.

Edward’s family would like to express their gratitude to his caregivers at Mercy Care Home- Mercy Canady and Pam Savage.  Thank you also to Ark Hospice’s Courtney Douglas R.N., Joyce Kariuki C.N.A, Dr. Espiritu and Sue Rankin.  You were all very loving and supportive- Edward was blessed to have you!