Neil was born in Belding, Michigan. As the son of a pastor, he grew up in several cities throughout Michigan. He graduated from Pershing High School in Detroit, Michigan, and went on to complete his undergraduate degree at Anderson University. Later, he pursued higher education, completing two graduate degrees: a Master of Divinity from Oberlin College and an Education Specialist Degree from Michigan State University.
He married Joyce E. Forsberg September 29, 1962 and lived in Lansing, Michigan, where they raised their three children. He later retired to Clearwater, Florida.
First and foremost, Neil was a man who deeply loved God. He demonstrated his faith in Jesus Christ through his words and actions. He was extremely devoted to his family, to his church, and to sharing his faith through his gifts.
A gifted singer, Neil was passionate about music. He loved to sing in church and community choirs and placed great value on the old church hymns. Additionally, he was a hard worker who valued a strong work ethic in others. He loved educating himself and those around him in a myriad of topics. He was also passionate about traveling and loved spending time outdoors. Hunting and camping were two of his favorite activities.
Neil expressed many of his gifts and passions in his work life. He directed choirs, worked as a youth minister, associate pastor, and high school teacher. He established state scholarships for higher education and served as a director of financial aid at a community college for many years.
In his retirement, Neil continued to travel and sing in choral groups, including church choirs and an international choir.
Neil was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Daisy (Hardacre) Shriner. He is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Joyce Shriner; his brother, Dr. John Shriner (Grace); his children, Greg Schaeffer (Xin Qiang), Dr. Lori Shriner, and Sheri Sholander (Eric); his grandchildren, Dr. Larson Sholander (Lynn), Jamison Sholander (Courtney), Linnea Kellar (Dale), Annika Sholander, Mia Schaeffer, and Keilia Schaeffer; and several great-grandchildren.
Neil's family is so thankful for the love that he showed his family over the years and the legacy of faith that he imparted.
A visitation for Neil will be held Sunday, May 29, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 2853 SUNSET POINT RD, CLEARWATER, FL 33759, followed by a funeral service from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sylvanabbey.com for the SHRINER family.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.9.5