Neal Kohl

Neal Kohl, 73, of Lexington, Nebraska, died Sunday, July 17, 2011, at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska, following a fatal stroke. He was born February 12, 1938, at Hastings, Nebraska to LaMoine and Juanita (Merimee) Kohl. Neal was a 1956 graduate of Hastings High School. Following graduation he went to work for the Sidles Company, an auto parts store, in Hastings. He was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Connie Taylor, on July 19, 1958, at Hastings. Four children were blessed to this marriage; Mike, Shelly, Barry and Wendy. In 1958, the couple moved to Ames, Iowa where Neal was a salesman for Sidles. He worked his way into management, managing stores in Perry, Iowa and Ames. In 1972, the family relocated to Lexington where Neal purchased Mr. Automative from Sidles. He later bought the Sidles store in McCook, which his son Barry now owns. Neal sold his store in Lexington and “retired” in 2000. Retirement was actually never a word in Neal’s book. He was always busy. He drove cars for Platte Valley Auto Mart, helped out the gals at BHA Real Estate, and spent part of his mornings having coffee at Morry’s body Shop, catching up on the local news. Neal always enjoyed serving his community. At the time of his passing, he was still active as a commissioner on the Board of Directors for the Lexington Housing Authority and was also Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Eastlawn East NAF Senior Housing. Neal also served on the “Keep Lexington Beautiful” committee. Neal’s prior accomplishments included: President of the Nebraska Automotive Wholesalers Association (1982-83); President of the Lexington Chamber of Commerce (1986); President of the Lexington Council for Economic Development (1992-93); Appointed to the Lexington City Council in 1994, and elected to a four year term in 1996; member of the Lexington Diplomats. Neal was also active in the Masonic Lodge and Tehama Temple Tri-County Shrine Club, and was a member of the First United Methodist Church. He always enjoyed being outdoors and spending time with his family. His favorite activities included hunting, fishing, and boating, especially with his children and grandchildren. There were few days when Neal didn’t make at least one trip to his land along the Platte river with his golden retriever, where he would spend time cutting wood and maintaining the property. Neal started bowling in high school and was still a fierce competitor on the local league, averaging close to 180 in recent years. He also looked forward every week to playing pitch with his buddies. Survivors include his wife of 53 years: Connie Kohl of Lexington, Nebraska Two sons: Mike (Leisha) Kohl of Lincoln, Nebraska and their children, Kayla, Karlie & Justin. Barry (Gloria) Kohl of McCook, Nebraska and their daughter, Hannah. Two daughters: Shelly (Doug) Rossi of Lexington, Nebraska and children, Allyson (Jordan) McCurry of Grapevine, Texas; Jenna Monter of Lincoln, Nebraska; Erin, Emilie & Joel Monter. Wendy (Andrew) Duis of Grand Island, Nebraska and their children, Carter, Bryce & Andrea. Three brothers: Guy Kohl of York, Nebraska Jack Kohl of Rifle, Colorado Ramon Kohl of Cedar Rapids, Iowa Mother-in-law: Bertha Ponder of Lexington, Nebraska Brother-in-law: Dr. Robert (Sharlene) Taylor of Litchfield, Arizona Neal is also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends. Neal was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Jean and Richard. Funeral Services will be Thursday, July 21, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Lexington with Reverend Tess Hufford officiating. Masonic Rites will be conducted at the church. Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 20, 2011, from 5-7 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington. Memorials are suggested to the Neal Kohl Technical Scholarship Fund (for students attending a technical institute studying auto mechanics). It was Neal’s wishes that his body be cremated following the funeral service and his ashes be scattered over the land he loved by the river, the family will honor his wish. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Please direct online condolences to the family through: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.