George Neal

MADISON- George W. Neal went home to his Heavenly Father on Sunday, March 9, 2014. He was born August 15, 1930 in Rose Township, Jefferson County, Pennsylvania.

George married the love of his life Wanda "LaNelle" Neal on April 15, 1965.

George found great pride in serving his country all over the world, including Vietnam, The Congo, Guam and the Korean Peninsula. He was one of the 1st to become a Physician's Assistant in the Armed Forces. On July 1, 1971, George retired from the US Air Force after serving 20 years and one day. George felt extremely honored and blessed to be invited to participate in the Honor Flight on May 18, 2013.

After retiring from the military, George graduated from the University of Nebraska, Omaha with a degree in Business Administration. He then managed Health Care Facilities in Michigan and Illinois until he joined his wife in the purchase of their Merle Norman Studios in Madison.

George was written up in "Who's Who in Health Care" and "Notable Americans" for his compassionate contribution as a health care administrator in Illinois and Michigan. He was also a member of Freeport, IL Rotary for years. George was a loyal and faithful member of Crossroads Church in Madison.

George co-owned and operated Merle Norman Studios in Madison and Monroe Wisconsin and Freeport Illinois for 35 years with his bride of 49 years LaNelle. George retired at the young age of 81 years old.

A funeral service will be held at CROSSROADS CHURCH, 3815 S. Dutch Mill Road, Madison, on Friday, March 14, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Doug Van Essen presiding. A visitation will be held at church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, LaNelle asks that you consider a gift in memory of George to Gilda's House or Crossroads Church.

A special thank you to all who cared for George and LaNelle over the last several months.