Jim was born on March 16, 1932 in Boise, Idaho to James H. McNeal and Carrie Frances McNeal. He graduated from Boise High School in 1950 and went to Boise State after high school. He joined the US Naval Reserve in 1952. He was one of two people in the reserves from Idaho that were activated to serve in the Korean War. Jim was commissioned as a radioman aboard the supply ship USS Andromeda. Soon after his completion of active duty he was transferred to inactive duty in 1953 and remained on such status for 25 years.
He married Louella Schaefer in 1961. After moving to Burbank with Lou and Penny (his Boxer), Jim began working as an ambulance driver for his father-in-law at Schaefer Ambulance Service. Over the next six years, the couple welcomed three children into their home Leslie, Marlene and James III he set about teaching them to golf, ski and ride horses. His children remember him as a gentle, patient father who encouraged them to pursue their goals.
Jim enjoyed engaging in conversation regardless of the subject matter. He was a dedicated individual who loved his job and was passionate about helping people. Over the years he was an active and dedicated member of the Lions Club, Foothill Service Club for the Blind, Burbank Men’s Club, American Ambulance Association, California Ambulance Association, Professional Aeromedical Transportation Association, Private Ambulance Providers Association and the Los Angeles County Ambulance Association and often volunteered for various positions and committees. Jim’s other passion was GOLF, he played just about every Saturday at his favorite track De Bell Golf Course in Burbank, California. He played in many fundraisers for various causes and political events.
Jim is survived by his wife of 53 years, Louella; children, Leslie (Glen); Marlene; Jimmy (Frances); grandchildren, James, Ashlie, Hannah; step grandchildren, Rhiannon, Bryn and Kyle; sister, Betty Daugherty of Brookside, OR and dearest friends Jim and Billie Eberle of Federal Way, WA. Jim was a wonderful husband, generous father and sensational grandfather. He will greatly be missed, but his memory lives-on, in those he touched.
In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to “Birdies for the Brave” at birdiesforthebrave.org. The organization supports 11 non-profit Military home front groups that provide critical programs and services to meet the specialized needs of wounded Veterans and Military Families.
Our family would like to convey our deepest appreciation to all of the men and women at Schaefer, Cole Schaefer and Gold Cross Ambulance Services for their dedication to their jobs and the McNeal Family.
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