Galen John Neill was born on June 22, 1933 in Topeka, Kansas where he grew up on his family’s farm. Upon graduation from high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served for 3 years including a tour in Korea as a truck driver delivering ammunition to the front lines. Upon receiving his honorable discharge, he returned to Topeka where he soon met his future wife of 65 years, Mary Neill. They subsequently moved to Kansas City where they eventually started a beauty salon business together in Gladstone, “Mary Janes Beauty Salon,” which they continued for over 30 years. In addition to the beauty salon, he also had a remodeling business in the Northland area.
During his life he was very active in serving his community with his involvement and leadership in local politics and the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars organizations. He was a strong supporter of our military and rarely went without his Marine Corp hat. He served many years on the Gladstone Democratic Committee tirelessly campaigning for candidates to help improve the Gladstone community.
He leaves behind his wife of 65 years, Mary Neill of Platte County, Missouri. His son Galen and wife Kim of The Woodlands, Texas and his son Clifford Neill and wife Nancy of San Juan Capistrano California. Grandsons Austin Neill of Long Beach California, Captain Jonathan Neill and his wife Courtney of Niceville, Florida, Sheldon Neill and his wife Nicole of Agoura Hills, California, Granddaughters Emily Neill of Houston, Texas, Mackenzi Neill of Costa Mesa, California, and Molly Neill of Birmingham Alabama. Step-granddaughter, Katie Hurst and husband Taylor of San Clemente, California. Great-grandchildren Scotty Grace, Brooks Galen and Henry Ryan Neill, all of Niceville, Florida. Step-great-grandchildren, Jude and Layla Hurst of San Clemente, California.
He is preceded in death by his parents John and Esther Neill of Topeka Kansas and his sister Marilyn Volker of Topeka Kansas.
Services will be on Thursday, September 2nd at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1357 NE 42nd Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64116, beginning with rosary prayers at 9:00 AM, followed by visitation with the Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM. Burial, with military honors, will follow the services in White Chapel Cemetery, 6600 NE Antioch Rd, Gladstone, MO 64119. In lieu of flowers contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association.
The family would like to express their sincere thanks to the wonderful Hospice Team for their compassionate care over the last 18 months.
