Neil Joseph Newman,

MADISON-Neil J. Newman, age 85, of Madison, passed away on Tuesday, April 24, 2012, at Agrace HospiceCare. He was born on May 14, 1926, in Madison, the son of William A. and Rosely Jo (Wheeler) Newman. Neil enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the European Theatre during World War II. He married Twyla A. Knuteson on Sept. 27, 1947, in Madison. Neil worked for the City of Madison as a mechanic for more than 30 years. He had a great sense of humor, and loved being with people. Neil enjoyed woodworking, Buckskinners’ Rendezvous, dancing, hunting, fishing, camping, the rodeo, country music, traveling, and bowling. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Neil is survived by his children, Mike (Patti) Newman of Cottage Grove, Kathy (David) Hardiman of Cottage Grove, Patty Newman of Madison, and Bill (Lisa) Newman of Madison; eight grandchildren, Danielle and Nick Newman, Emma and Ella Hardiman, Collin and Gavin Oswald, and Bella and Lulu Newman; brother, William H. Newman of Madison; and numerous other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Twyla; and brothers, Robert, Dale and Dean. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 28, 2012, with the Rev. Francis Deaner presiding and military rites being conducted. Burial will be at Highland Memory Gardens. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of service on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare, VFW Post #7591, or VFW Post #8483. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare, VFW Post #7591, or VFW Post #8483. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of service on Saturday. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 28, 2012, with the Rev. Francis Deaner presiding and military rites being conducted.