Christopher Neal

Age 22, died on December 1, 2019 while protecting his wife and daughter from tragic harm. He truly saved his family that night without thought or regard for himself. Chris was born April 28, 1997 in Kaufman, Texas, the son of Dan and Debra (McClure) Neal. Growing up in Texas, Chris became well known at Quinlan Ford High School. He enjoyed his days playing baseball. His energetic personality was put to good use when his school asked him to record a video as a way to motivate the underclassmen. Soon after graduating high school, Chris had a strong desire to see the world and do something great with his life. He did exactly that as he joined the U.S. Navy. Chris took great pride in his work as an Aviation Electronics Technician and had the opportunity to travel to many countries, cultivating friendships everywhere he went. He met his wife, Haley, while they both were attending Navy A School in Pensacola, Florida. Little did they know, they were a perfect match. Chris later became a government contractor, continuing his career in the aviation industry. Recently, he was thrilled to be hired at Duncan Aviation in Battle Creek. Chris was a true car enthusiast, starting with his very first Scion. Nothing surpassed his Mitsubishi Evo 8 though, his favorite car. Between his mechanical intuition and YouTube videos, he was able to do most of the work on his cars himself. Perhaps the only thing he loved as much as he loved his wife and daughter, was snowboarding! Chris was known to spend all day on the mountain carving up the fresh powder. He had a board for every type of weather, often hitting the slopes first thing in the morning and not returning home until after dark. To know Chris is to know his love and devotion to his family and friends, particularly Haley and Charolette whom he doted on every day. Chris will be remembered for his kind heart, his thirst for life, and his sincere devotion to those he loved. Chris was preceded in death by his mother, Debra Neal. Surviving are his wife, Haley; their daughter, Charolette and an unborn baby; his father: Danny (Sam) Neal; siblings: Candice Conway, Anthony (Lindsey) Neal, and Stacy Neal; stepsister: Christina Brink; and 4 nieces and nephews. Cremation has taken place. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Visit Chris’ personal webpage at www.BetzlerLifeStory.com where you may archive a favorite memory or photo and sign his online guestbook. Memorial contributions may be made through www.Fundly.com towards Condolences for the Family of Christopher Neal. Arrangements by Betzler Life Story Funeral Home, 6080 Stadium Dr., Kalamazoo, Michigan (269) 375-2900.