Tim Neal

Timothy R. Neal, age 73 of Thedford, passed away on Friday, August 29th. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Thomas County Fairgrounds from 2:00 to 6:00 pm. In keeping with Tim's wishes, cremation was chosen. Memorials are suggested to the Thedford Area Community Foundation, Thomas County Library, and Thedford High School Teammates Program.

Tim was born on April 6, 1952, to Kenneth and Betty (Jameson) Neal in North Platte, Nebraska. He grew up in Thedford, Nebraska, and graduated in 1970. In high school, Tim worked for Louis Brys Well Service and for Sandy Larsen at the Lumber Yard. He enjoyed the latter, purchasing the lumber yard with his dad in 1975. Tim owned the lumber yard through February of 2023, when he sold the property to Dave Masek. It was important to him that he sold the business to the right person, and that it stayed open for the community.

Tim married Deonna (Rickerson) on November 11, 1970, and together they welcomed a son and a daughter, Danny Lee and Marcy Lin. Both enjoyed working at the lumber yard alongside their dad and learned many things from him. Jessie and Dylan Andersen also worked Tim at the lumber yard while in high school.

Tim had a love for the outdoors, finding peace and joy in his time at his cabin. Whether it was hunting, fishing, or tending the property, he took great pride in keeping everything in its place. Tim enjoyed reading and was a loyal patron of the Thomas County Library. He loved Husker football and volleyball and never missed a game. He followed his grandkids' sports and outdoor adventures, always anxious to hear how they did. Tim had a sweet tooth, and his granddaughter Jessie loved to bake him his favorites. The empty pan and a note let Jessie know when it was time to make another batch.

Tim is survived by his children, Danny (Lisa) Neal of Amherst and Marcy (Chad) Andersen of Thedford, as well as five grandchildren: Colton Neal, Jasper Neal, Cooper Neal, Jessie Andersen, and Dylan (Jacey) Andersen. He is also survived by his brothers Lyle (Beverly) Neal of Lincoln, NE, Marlyn (Sheryl) Neal of Cypress, TX, and sisters LaVon Harwarger of Arnold and Kenya (Rick) Johnson of Broken Bow, NE.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Betty Neal.