Donald Neal

Donald K. Neal 85, of Bloomington passed away on Friday, December 17, at Bloomington Hospital. He was born on January 23, 1925 in Monroe County to the late Charles and Daisy (Deckard) Neal. Don was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Bloomington. He graduated from Indiana University. Over the years he gave private music lesson’s to many students. Don taught in the Bloomington school system from 1949-1986. He was "the icon" of the strings/orchestra faculty in the school system according to his former colleagues. "He set the standard for us all." Other words used to characterize Don's standing among the faculty were these: he was "a legend", our "master." When the strings program was expanded into the elementary schools. He traveled to the various elementary schools teaching strings. He also taught at Central Junior High. If you lived in Bloomington, Indiana in the second half of the 20th century and took string lessons privately, or classes in the public schools - from elementary through high school - you had Don Neal. He was an institution in this community. He knew more people in the community than about anyone I know. I have talked with a bank teller in her late 50's... a retired school teacher in her early 70's...and people in between since Don's death, and they remembered him fondly, for his teaching and his gentle ways. He loved his Cadillac automobiles. He was a fixture for decades at lunchtime at Ladyman's Cafe. He sang in the Chancel Choir at First United Methodist Church in Bloomington for 64 years. He was always present to sing - on Sunday mornings and for special services. He leaves behind several cousins. Friends may call at the Day Funeral Home on Monday from 4 – 8 PM. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday at 1:00 PM at the First United Methodist Church. Burial will take place at Clear Creek Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.dayfuneralservices.com.