Neal Lampkin

Neal R. Lampkin, age 82, died at his home, surrounded by his family on November 26, 2012 in Washington, Iowa, following a lengthy illness. A Masonic Lodge Service will be held at 5:30 PM on Thursday, November 29th, with family visitation to follow from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Jones Eden Funeral Home in Washington. Services will be held at Washington United Methodist Church, beginning with visitation at 1:00 PM and a Celebration of Life service at 2:00 PM, on Friday, November 30, 2012, Jim Stiles officiating. A private family interment will immediately follow at Elm Grove Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to a scholarship for a graduating senior of Washington High School in the name of Neal R. Lampkin, Character Award. This award will recognize a graduate with the same values that Neal emulated throughout his life, such as community involvement, service to others, love of people, animals, athletics, and poetry. Online condolences may be sent for Neal's family through the web at www.jonesfh.com. Neal was born on May 4, 1930 in the small mining community of Brazil, Iowa, the son of John H. Lampkin and Ola C. Clark. He was educated through the eighth grade in Brazil, and one year at Centerville, before moving to and graduating from Fort Madison High School in 1948. While in high school he was an accomplished athlete and a member of the 4-man track relay team that held the Interscholastic National Record. On March 18, 1949, in Keokuk, Iowa, Neal married his high school sweetheart Roberta Jean Henke and went on to share 67 years and together raised four children. Washington became their home in 1962. Neal was a career agent and staff manager for the Prudential Life Insurance Company of America, including LUTC. He devoted 34 years of service prior to his retirement in 1988, during which time he received many honors and awards. For 11 years following retirement, he brightened people's lives by delivering floral and pharmacy items for Hy-Vee Food Stores. He epitomized the "Helpful smile in every aisle." Neal held various offices and positions in many local organizations over the years. He was an avid follower of his children and grandchildren's activities. Neal was a member of the Washington United Methodist Church and served as a Senior HighYouth Leader. He was Assistant Troop Leader of Boy Scouts of America and was Den Mother for a den of Cub Scouts, President, timer, and diving judge for the Washington Green Toad Swim Team. He was a charter member of the Washington County Special Deputies and past Captain. For nearly 50 years, he was a member of the Washington Masonic Lodge #26. For 19 years he and his crew provided security detail for the annual Farm Progress Show. He was a recipient of the Gold Feather Award, honoring and representing his dedicated support of Community Chest of Washington. In life he taught his family the value of honesty, integrity, humility, hard work, and a good sense of humor. In death he continues to teach us love of family, respect for others, the importance of friends and living by faith, Neal is survived by his loving wife and partner of 63 years, Roberta, four children and their spouses; Larry and Rachel of Gardnerville, Nevada, Rick and Jane of Moline, Illinois, Jeff and Renae of Pleasant Hill, Iowa, Ann and Jim Williams of Wayland, Iowa, 13 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Neal lived his life with the belief that "The best gift a man can give to the world is to be a good father." His love extended well beyond his family. Neal is preceded in death by his parents, sister Bernice Lampkin, brother Willis Lampkin and infant grand daughter Lindsay Lampkin.

Neal Lampkin

May 4, 1930 - November 26, 2012