Ernest "David" Neel

Ernest David Neel, 82, of Casa Grande died on June 16, 2015, at home.

The memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Friday at Trinity Lutheran Church, with the Rev. Mark Chase officiating.

Mr. Neel was born on Oct. 19, 1932, in Louisville, Kentucky, and was a son of Kathleen and Ernest D. Neel Sr. He served in the Air Force as a band member and married "the prettiest bank teller he’d ever seen," Georgene Peterson. He was an aerospace technician with Lockheed Corporation for 35 years before retirement, receiving awards and accolades. The couple raised four loving, musical children and devoted much of their lives to worshipping, sharing the word of Jesus Christ through their music.

They explored the mountains of Northern California and Northern Arizona and deserts of Southern Arizona and moved many times, finally settling in Casa Grande. Known as Daddy to his kids and Papa to his grandkids, he excelled at many interests and hobbies but was best known as a musician, mostly as a choral director but also as a jazz saxophonist. He was generous, loving and patient and gave wise advice, inspiration and support to his family.

He was preceded in death by a son, David Neel, and two brothers, Bob and Donald Neel. Survivors include his wife; two daughters and a son, Lisa Dieirickx, Juli Martin and Danny Neel; and seven grandchildren.

J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel is in charge of arrangements.