Howard W Neely
May 8, 1932-Dec. 5, 2019
Pleasanton, California
Submitted by Kate Scott

After 87 years of well-lived and well-fought life, Howard W. Neely passed away on December 5, 2019 in his Arroyo Grande residence with family at his side. Howard was a 53 year resident of his beloved city of Pleasanton. He was actively involved in his community, dedicating countless hours to committees, his church & his family.

Howard was the son of Captain Neely of the US Navy & Howard honorably served in the army in his younger years, stationed in Fort Leonard Wood, Colorado. His mother was Helen Adams & he loved his Adams heritage. He was a skilled draftsmen and dedicated industrial arts & history teacher in Fremont, impacting many youth in our community. He was a long-time member of Pleasanton Presbyterian Church & enjoyed marching with the Balloon Platoon for many years. While serving on the Park & Recreation Commission for the City of Pleasanton, he was instrumental in establishing several parks for the City. He was also a part of the Affordable Housing Authority, working to ensure housing opportunities for those in challenging financial situations. Along with a few other community members, Howard was a catalyst for securing the securing the Pleasanton Pioneer Cemetery by the City of Pleasanton to honor loved ones in the community for generations to come.

He loved woodworking and using every one of his collection of tools. He loved the outdoors, and spending hour after hour tending his property that he build with his own hands. He fiercely fought for what he believed in and he will be dearly missed by friends and family.

He is survived by his wife Kathleen of 48 years who resides in Arroyo Grande, CA. His family legacy includes five daughters, thirteen grandchildren & twelve great-grandchildren.

Tags: veteran, teacher/educator, public service