MENTONE – Giles Lee Neer, formerly of rural Akron, passed away on Sept. 3, 2024, in Tampa, Fla.
He was born on Oct. 13, 1956, in Warsaw, the eldest of three children to Richard “Dick” Neer and Phyllis Jean Neer (née Grubbs).
He is survived by his seven children: Joshua “Joshy” (Robert), Joseph “Joey,” John “Johnny,” Victoria “Tori” (Roger), Teri “Binky” (Claudio), Jacob “Jakey” (Tera) and Rachel “Baby”; eight grandchildren: Chloe, Ethan, Lazarus, Ava, Vivian, Lilyan, Macy and Graham; and two great-grandchildren: Felix and Damon. He also leaves behind his brother, Chris (Gamze); extended family and many close friends.
His beloved wife, Jennifer Maria Neer (née Hanson), passed away just shy of three months before his own passing after a brave battle with cancer, a loss that weighed heavily on him. Giles was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Glenn and Grace Neer; grandmother, Minnie “Granny” Grubbs; father, Dick; mother, Phyllis; brother, Mikel; and grandson, Aydan.
Giles graduated from Warsaw Community High School, earned an associate’s degree from Manchester College, and attended various vocational trainings over the years. Skilled in multiple trades, he spent much of his career as a private contractor in construction. His expertise led him to work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at R.D. Bailey Lake in West Virginia. More recently, he dedicated many years to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital in Tampa, where he took pride in mentoring the next generation in gas systems, inspection, pipefitting, heating/cooling and general maintenance.
Known for his humor and authenticity, Giles left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He loved music, always brought a unique energy to every gathering, and had a deep appreciation for nature’s flora and fauna, especially birds.
Giles and Jennifer were married on March 15, 1975, and renewed their vows on March 30, 2024. Their love endured through many of life’s challenges, and while the family mourns his loss, they take comfort in knowing that Giles and Jennifer are together again.
The memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 at King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone, with Pastor Derrick Harris officiating. The interment will take place following the service in Nichols Cemetery, rural Akron. Memorial visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 at the funeral home. A celebration of his life will continue from 5 to 10 p.m. after the services at The Barn 1880, 2076 N. CR 100E, Warsaw.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his memory to Nichols Cemetery.
Share a memory or send an online condolence at www.hartzlerfuneralservices.com.