Elwood Malcolm Nealey

MADISON/DEFOREST-Elwood M. Nealey, age 94, of DeForest, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 23, 2015, at Artisan Assisted Living. He was born on Jan. 4, 1921, in Baraboo, the son of Elwood and Fannie (Burtch) Nealey. He married Alicia Leary on March 27, 1964, in Madison. Elwood served his country during World War II in the U.S. Army. Upon his return he began work for Oscar Mayer, where he worked as an electrician until his retirement in 1981. He was an avid sports fan, especially for his beloved Packers. Elwood is survived by his children, Sharon (Ron Wichinski) Derke, Mike Leary, Diane (Carlton Jackson) Egan and Rita (Bob) Gladem; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; sisters, Lee Cummings, Lil Rickey, Adie Halsey, Ineas Banker and Ruth Sharley; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Alicia; sister, Vicky Nealey; and daughter-in-law, Paula Leary. Private services will be held at a later date. Burial will be at Highland Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare. A special thank you to the staff and residents at Artisan Assisted Living for treating Elwood like family. We would also like to thank Agrace HospiceCare for providing exceptional care and comfort to Elwood. Grandpa was a kind and gentle soul, he will be dearly missed by all of his "darlings". Online condolences may be made to www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420