Howard J. Neels

Howard J. Neels Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at the age of 83. Precious son of the late Howard John Neels, the late Clementine, nee Niewoehner, Heaghney, and the late Joseph Heaghney; beloved husband of Dianne Neels, nee Zitko; devoted father of Jeff (Lori) Neels, Laura (John) Sakach, and Angela (Eddie) Gjata-Perkins; cherished grandfather of Krysten (Larry) Bingham, Alec Gjata, and Jordon Gjata; blessed great-grandfather of Ella and Brie Bingham; treasured brother of James (Judy) Neels and John “Jack” (the late Barbara) Neels; dear brother-in-law, uncle, great-uncle, cousin, and friend of many.

Howard was born in early April 1941 in St. Louis, Missouri. He was an alumnus of Kenrick Seminary before he attended St. Louis University to further his education. He would become a vital part of the St. Louis community as a Letter Carrier for the United States Postal Service. Throughout his life, Howard was known to be full of humor, spreading joy and laughter to his friends and family.

Howard was a big fan of sports, both watching and playing. He loved, as many St. Louisans do, to watch Cardinals baseball and engage in the sense of comradery with the city he was born and raised in. Howard was an incredibly talented athlete himself. In quieter moments, he enjoyed fishing, but he was quite competitive – and successful—in bowling and horseshoes. He bowled at least two perfect 300 games in bowling and won multiple championships for horseshoes. He played soccer in high school and refed many games, in both colligate and professional leagues and clubs. However, above all, Howard’s favorite sports games to attend and engage in were those of his great-granddaughters.

Howard was also a devout parishioner of the St. Stephen Protomartyr Catholic Church. His love and connection to God and, therefore, his community was evident every week at Mass and everyday throughout his long, fulfilling life.

Howard’s impact and legacy will live on for many years to come through his family and their cherished memories. We are sad to see him leave, but we rejoice that he is united with his loved ones and The Lord. May Howard rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to deGreef Hospice House in Howard’s honor.

A visitation to celebrate Howard’s life will be held on Sunday April 6, 2025, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons South City Chapel 7027 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116. Mass of Christian Burial will be held the following morning at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen Protomartyr Catholic Church, Howard’s beloved home Parish. Interment in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery following Mass.