Neal E. Atkinson, 99, of Fowler, passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at University Place of West Lafayette. Neal was born May 12, 1924 in Fowler to the late Ray E. and Alta S. (Busey) Atkinson. He was a 1942 graduate of Gilboa High School.

His marriage of 71 years was to Rita J. Williams on November 23, 1946 in the United Methodist Church of Remington. Rita preceded him in death on February 1, 2018.

Neal was a past Board of Education Member for Tri-County High School and past Gilboa Township Trustee. He was a long time member of the Remington United Methodist Church.

Neal farmed all his life and operated his own excavating service for many years. He was a licensed pilot, building his own plane. Neal also owned Mt. Gilboa Auto Body Repair and Restoration.

Neal loved flying planes and enjoyed square dancing, riding motorcycles, and building model airplanes. He built many replicas of cars, cycles, and farm equipment that were special to him.

He is survived by two children, Barbara (Rodney) Dowell of Valparaiso and Dale Atkinson of Fowler. Two daughters-in-law, Ellen (Duane) Taulman of Remington and Jean Atkinson also of Remington. Also surviving are eight grandchildren, Tina, Sarah, Beth, Adam, Denissa, Jason, Erik, and Matthew; 16 great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death along with his wife and parents are two sons, Donald and Ronald Atkinson; two sisters, Geneveive Hare and Virginia Shepherd. Two cousins, Mavis Bell and Maurine Boyd.

Friends may call from 10 AM (EDT) until the time of Celebration of Life Service 11 AM (EDT) Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at Stitz-Clapper Funeral Home of Remington. Interment to follow in Remington Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Neal’s name to Remington United Methodist Church, Faith Christian Tabernacle of Rensselaer, or Mt. Gilboa United Methodist Church.