It is with heavy heart that we share that Neal Wayne Kemp, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, December 17th, 2024.

He was born on November 12, 1955, in Keosauqua, Iowa, to Eugene Kemp and Rachel Wiley. Neal was a proud graduate of Upper Iowa University, where he studied Theatre and Library Sciences, participated in ROTC, and was an active member and local chapter President of the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity. His dedication to service led him to a distinguished career in the United States Army and National Guard, where he attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Neal served as a base commander at K2 in Uzbekistan, a role that demonstrated his leadership, commitment, and strong sense of duty.

Neal met his wife at Upper Iowa University in 1977. Neal and Susan were married on May 27th, 1978, and their marriage was the foundation of a beautiful life together. They lived in Germany while Neal was stationed there for the U.S. Army and they started their family, before moving back to the U.S. Their love for each other was an inspiration to everyone around them. Together, they enjoyed many adventures, including cruises to destinations like Antigua, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, San Juan, England, and Scotland. They also shared a passion for nearly annual trips to Universal Studios in Orlando.

In 2006, Neal transitioned to a career with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, where he served with distinction until his retirement in 2021 as Executive Director. His contributions to veterans and their families were immeasurable and reflect his deep respect for those who served

In his retirement, Neal embraced new passions, including ushering at the Paramount Theatre where he could support and socialize with fellow theatre enthusiasts (and see shows for free!) and growing his enormous collection of books, he had a voracious appetite for reading (no really, it was out of control, boxes and boxes of books). He loved supporting his community through his involvement at Harvest – New Beginnings, where he was active in men's groups, the Care Team, and facilitating the Griefshare ministry. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was a devoted, loving, and kind friend to all who knew him. Neal's legacy will live on through his family, his contributions to his country and community, and the love and kindness he shared with those around him. He was an amazing grandfather, a fiercely loyal friend, and a devoted follower of God. Neal's strength, kindness, and faith will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

While his father Eugene has preceded him in death, Neal is survived by his loving mother, Rachel; his brother, Alan (Missy); his sister, June; his devoted wife, Susan Peters Kemp; his children, Stephen Kemp (Jennifer) and Jennifer Signore (Sam); and his three cherished grandchildren, Sasha, Niko, and Logan.

A gathering of Neal's friends and family will be held on January 11th, 2025, at Dunn Family Funeral Home with Crematory 1801 S. Douglas Road Oswego, IL 60543 from 10:00 A.M.-12:30 P.M. ct. with a short service at 12:30 P.M. Military honors will be conducted at a later date for close family at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Elwood, IL.

For information, 630-554-3888 or visit his memorial page at www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com