Ginger Neal, 81

Virginia Lee “Ginger” Neal, age 81, of Athens, died peacefully at her beloved home on Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2018 following a ten-year illness. She was born in Kalamazoo on Oct. 28, 1937 the daughter of James and Marguerite (Vink) Waters. She graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School and also graduated from several banking institutes. She was involved in banking for over 31 years in both Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. Ginger was also a Real Estate Broker and member of the Rotary Club. She enjoyed bowling in several area leagues. Ginger loved to crochet, winning awards at the State Fair, and donating items to the needy. She especially enjoyed nature and enjoyed taking in the wildlife while on walks through their rural property.

Ginger is survived by her husband, Michael P. “Mick” Neal; a daughter, Mitzi L. Neal of Crestview, FL; a son, Brett M. Neal of Athens; three grandchildren, GinNeal (Allen) McVay of Crestview, FL, Dr. Samantha (Timothy) Andrews of Honolulu, and Brett-Wesley Neal of Portage; a great-grandson, Brandon McVay; three sisters, Alice, Pam, and Margo; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Bill and James; and a sister, Darlene.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm Monday at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon. There will be a VFW Auxiliary Service beginning at 6 pm Monday at the funeral home. Funeral services for Ginger Neal will be at 11 am Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2018 at the funeral home with Msgr. Thomas A. Martin officiating. Interment will be in St. Edward Catholic Cemetery, followed by a time of food and fellowship at VFW Post #5319 in Athens. It is suggested that memorials be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com