Cyril McNeal Obituary

Longtime Durango resident Cyril Peter McNeal died Sunday, Sept. 7, 2014, at his home. He was 92

Known as "Mac," he was born to Guy and Margaret McNeal on Oct. 22, 1921, in Kenmare, North Dakota. He was one of five children.

At 16, he joined the Civilian Conservation Corps, helping to build dams in North Dakota during the Depression.

During World War II, Mr. McNeal served in the Army with the 10th Mountain Division. He began as a military policeman and then served in a training position for the famed division.

While stationed at Camp Hale in Leadville, he met his future wife, Charlotte Kerzon. The couple married Feb. 12, 1946, in Leadville after a three-month courtship.

Mr. McNeal was a driver for Continental Trailways for 40 years. His family said he drove 6 million miles and never had an accident.

"Cryil's favorite thing was to work," according to his family, "any type of work, but he had a love for woodwork. Cyril also loved to help out at McNeal's Auto Center, where he, Charlotte and his son were partners. He also loved being a father to Linda, Pete, and Mike."

Mr. McNeal lived in Durango for 57 years.

Mr. McNeal was preceded in death by his daughter, Linda McNeal, when she was 4.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Charlotte McNeal, of Durango; sons Mike McNeal of Durango and Pete McNeal of Farmington; two grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

No services will be held at this time.