Neal DeWitt Stechman

February 5, 1952 – July 9, 2022

Neal passed away July 9, 2022. He was born in Illinois on February 5, 1952 to Jeanette and Earl Stechman. He spent his childhood and early years in Deer Creek, Illinois. He then came to Jacksonville, Florida on a basketball scholarship.

After college, he began his career with SCL Railroad. That same year, he married the love of his life, the former Karen Chachos. They were blessed with the birth of their adored daughter, Christy, a few years later.

Neal was a devout Catholic and devoted husband, father and grandfather. He loved family, all things “Railroad”, the Jacksonville Jaguars, and was always quietly helping others. Neal retired from CSX after 40 years as Terminal Manager.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Karen, his daughter Christy Zynda, his son-in-law Kristopher (who he considered his son), and his cherished granddaughter Charlotte. He is also survived by his mother-in-law Mildred Brunke, his sister Judy Cremeens, and brothers Rusty and Tony Stechman.

He was predeceased by his parents and brother Melvin.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 16, 2022 at 1 p.m. at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Jacksonville Beach, Florida with Father William Kelly as Celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Neal's memory may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation .

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hardage-giddensbeacheschapel.com for the Stechman family.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of HARDAGE-GIDDENS FUNERAL In

Jacksonville Beach FL.