Francis W. Neiner

Francis William Neiner born July 22, 1929, son of Frank and Amelia (Bilyard) Neiner in Deselm, IL, peacefully passed away in his sleep on June 8, 2024. He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years Betty Jane, his parents Frank and Amelia, brothers Robert and Dale, grandson Michael, and great-granddaughter Ella Jane. He is survived by his daughter Deanna and son-in-law Francis Schroeder of Manteno; two grandchildren, Christina (Nathan) Brown of Oklahoma City, OK., Lisa (Zachary) Rinehart of Kankakee, IL; 4 great-grandchildren, Ozzie & Everett Brown, Griffin and Callie Rinehart; 6 nieces and nephews, Lorraine, Pat, Elaine, Dalean, Debra, and Alan. Being forever a “country boy”, there were many people who helped Francis carry out tasks around the house and farm. Fred Weigt was solely responsible for allowing the Neiner family to go on two family trips during Deanna’s childhood. Mike Neiner, JR Woods, Butch Lanoue, and Russ Anderson always seemed to be available when needed. Farming was his first love and passion from high school until this planting season. He was proud of raising registered Holstein cattle and told stories of the work late into life. He also raised pigs for many years. He would tell stories and invite you to help if you stood around too long. Francis was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan even getting to witness a World Series Championship in 2016. He also celebrated his 90th birthday at Wrigley Field. He was not partial to baseball and enjoyed watching all Chicago sports teams. He also enjoyed playing sports during his earlier life. He played basketball and baseball in high school and was an avid golfer in retirement. A visitation will be held at Brown-Jensen Funeral on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, starting at Noon until the funeral service at 1 p.m. Pastor Dwight Ascher will officiate. A burial will follow the service at Bloom Grove Cemetery in Manteno. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to Manteno High School FFA program. A program with longstanding history that Francis was a proud member of. Checks can be made to MHS FFA.