Obituary of Claud H. Neer

Claud "Chuck" Neer, 70, a lifelong resident of Damascus, PA passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, July 28, 2015. Chuck was born at home on the family farm in Long Eddy, NY, the youngest son of the late Claud Mayhem and Helen Bishop Neer. He leaves behind his devoted, loving wife of 49 years, Patricia Murphy Neer. Their union was an inspiration to their two adoring sons, Claud (Chuckie) & wife Audrey Neer, James (Jimmy) & wife Tracy Neer; his grandchildren Lauren and Claud "Chrisser" Neer whom he cherished in addition to his beloved family pets Uno, Todd, C.J. and Murphy; a brother Ralph & his wife Bette Lee & a sister Joan. Chuck is also survived by several admiring nieces, nephews & extended "family". He was preceded in death by two siblings; a brother Frank Neer and a sister Janice Kenyon, wife of James Kenyon who was a mentor and dear friend to Chuck throughout his life. After serving in the United States Army Corps of Engineers Hell on Wheels division, his mission in life was to be an entrepreneur. He and Pat were committed to several successful businesses to which they dedicated their lives while never losing focus on family values. They not only took pride in these businesses, but more importantly, treasured the relationships developed along the way. Chuck had a passion for aviation, motorsports and ALL fast cars (Ford Mustangs, especially!) His sons were inherently born with this passion and were raised in the family garage to diagnose & repair automobiles. Drag racing was a thrill for the entire family. Chuck was a modest champion of dirt track racing and was fortunate enough to race with his sons and grandson, and was proud of three generations of racing enthusiasts. Chuck was adventurous and fearless. After purchasing a helicopter, he decided it might be best to take a few lessons and was eager to give a ride to anyone in the neighborhood who was brave enough to join him. He and Pat enjoyed "wintering" in Florida in their R.V. Chuck was an influential member of the local community and will be fondly remembered as being a story teller, jokester and prankster. He was a proud family man and will be missed dearly. Visitation will be held August 1st from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Arthur Bryant Funeral home, 1228 North Main Street, Honesdale, PA followed by a graveside service in Pine Mill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Michael J. Bryant Memorial Fund. Checks should be made payable to the Wayne County Community Foundation, 214 9th Street, Honesdale, PA 18431 (please note "Michael J. Bryant Foundation" in the memo line). Chuck and Mike shared a special bond and this foundation was very important to him.