ANGOLA - Neal Ellis Knox, age 70, of rural Steuben County, Indiana, was joyfully welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Friday, Aug. 22, 2025. He passed peacefully at home with his wife, Bev, by his side.
Born on Aug. 29, 1954, Neal lived a life marked by deep faith, steadfast love for his family, and a servant's heart that touched countless lives.
Neal graduated in 1972, from Hamilton High School. A gifted athlete in his school years, Neal excelled in football, basketball, baseball and track. He carried that same determination and drive into every part of his life.
On March 23, 1974, Neal married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Kunkle. For 51 years, they shared a marriage built upon faith, love and devotion. Bev lovingly and faithfully cared for Neal throughout his eight-year journey with heart failure, standing as his partner and source of strength.
Neal was the proud and devoted father of Thane Hollis (Kylie Weber) Knox, Tyson Alan (Brittany Sistrunk) Knox, Trenton Neal (Rebecca True) Knox and Taryn Donnell Knox (Troy Kaiser). His joy multiplied as he became "Papa" to nine beloved grandchildren, Joel (Kayla Fenstermaker) Knox, Avery Knox, Niles Knox, Ryker Knox, Remi Knox, Brynlee Knox, Hollis Knox, Cameron Kaiser and Kinsley Kaiser. His family was his greatest treasure, and he poured his love, wisdom and strength into each of their lives. He is also survived by his only brother, Noel Hollis Knox.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Billy G. and Gailanna J. Knox; and his in-laws, Donald C. and Laurene R. Kunkle.
Neal farmed alongside his father from childhood and carried a love of the land throughout his life. Off the farm, he drove a ready-mix truck for Northwest Materials, drove for Marathon Oil Company, and ultimately gave 32 years of loyal service as a journeyman lineman with Steuben County REMC. Neal's work was never just a job - it was a calling. Whether restoring power on stormy nights or traveling to hurricane-stricken areas, he found joy in serving others and living out his faith through action.
Neal also poured his energy and passion into hobbies that reflected who he was at heart. He raised Polled Herefords with care and pride, finding joy in stewarding the land and its creatures. A hobby woodworker, he spent countless hours in his shop, crafting pieces that will continue to bless his family for years to come. He also planted more than 30 acres of trees, leaving a lasting mark on his family farm that he loved so dearly. Of all his pursuits, his favorite moments were spent in the stands, cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting events - always their biggest fan.
Neal's life was firmly rooted in his love for Christ. A faithful member of Pleasant View Christian Church, he served as both trustee and elder, living by the words of Matthew 5:16: "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." His light shone brightly - through his honesty, generosity, and unwavering devotion to the Lord and his family.
To know Neal was to witness humility, integrity, and kindness. He was a steady presence, a faithful servant, and a man whose legacy of love and faith will continue to ripple through the generations he leaves behind.
Visitation will be held on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025, from 3-7 p.m., at Fairview Missionary Church, Angola, Indiana.
The memorial service will be on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, at 11 a.m., at Fairview Missionary Church, Angola, Indiana.
Memorials may be made in Neal's memory to Pleasant View Christian Church, Angola, or the Steuben County 4-H Fair Board.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.weichtfh.com.
Local arrangements handled by Weicht Funeral Home, Angola, Indiana.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Weicht Funeral Home Inc.
7 Entries
John and Julie Stevens
5 hours ago
Bev, Thane, Tyson,Trenton, and Taryn: Our deepest sympathies to you all. I clearly remember having each of you "kids" in classes at Hamilton. How time passes, rewards, and then claims us all. Although we did not know Neal personally, we know he must have been a tremendous man to ,with your mother, have raised such fine children into adults. Bev, we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers that the comforting touch of God and the support of your family will see you through this difficult time. John and Julie
Mike & Cheryl Stuckey
Earlier today
I met Neal 33 years ago through work with REMC. He was always so friendly and helpful when I first started out He gave me advice that helped me through the years. I've only know the kids for a few years but it is obvious that Neal and Bev instilled strong values in their children.
Soni Presley
August 26, 2025
I was so sorry to hear of your loss.
Neal was such a great person and always kind.
My thoughts are with you Bev and your family.
Judy (Jackson)Milleman
August 26, 2025
I am so sorry to hear about Neal´s passing. I will
Always remember his
Kind heart when he came
Into the co-op. Always a smile. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult
Time.
Larry Kummer
August 25, 2025
Neil was always an inspiration to me through the years. So kind and very skilled at everything he did in life. Bev and the children were so supportive of Neil and their family stand as a great role model for everyone to follow. I will always remember Bev and Neil as very special people in my life and career.
Deb (Knight) Mutzfeld
August 24, 2025
Thinking of you and your family Bev, so very sorry to hear about Neil
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