Marion Leslie Neel

Marion Leslie Neel, 89, of Lecanto, Florida, passed away peacefully at his home on August 13, 2020. He was born on August 1, 1931 to Albert and Estella Neel in Marianna, Florida. As hardworking as they come, he moved to South Florida at 20, and worked in various construction, road building, and earth-moving jobs, until eventually owning and operating Neel Pan Rental, a heavy equipment earth-moving business in Pompano Beach, Florida. After purchasing property in Lecanto in 1968, he built a home on the land in 1988 and his family moved to the area permanently in 1995.
Typically known to friends as “Neel”, he was  an avid fisherman, loved to cook, and could tell a story that kept the listener riveted, amazed by the clever wit and often laughing oneself to tears. Marion was the definition of “tough” and “strong”, yet the most loving and generous husband, father, and friend imaginable.
He was preceded in death by two of his daughters, Sherry Plante, and Cindy Sherman. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Joyce, also known as the love of his life and center of his world. He is also survived by his daughters Teresa Neel and Susan Cotten, grandchildren Courtney, Justin, Nicole, Casey, Emma Kate, Gracie, and his great grandchild, Logan.
Private cremation is under the direction of McGan Cremation Service in Inverness, Florida. A celebration of a life well lived will be set at a later date for family.