January 19, 1937 – January 24, 2015
Richard Wilson Neily, Jr. passed away on Saturday, January 24, 2015. He was born near Daly City in San Fransisco, CA, to Richard and Elizabeth Neily. As a child he grew up close to his family; they enjoyed many trips to Mt. Shasta fishing and boating.
As he grew older he chose to follow in his father's footsteps and join the Marine Corps. After serving his country he started a family and settled down in Orange, CA. Later, in the early 70’s he moved to Blaine, WA where he worked at Westman's Marine for many years while pursuing a career as a fisherman. He and Beryl Schmeizer enjoyed sharing life as fishing partners, gillnetting and crabbing over the years as well as being members of the Crab and Gillnet Assn.
Rich learned to be a "jack of all trades, master of many," as he had an uncanny way of fixing most anything. Being a master of conversation he was blessed to talk with everyone who lived in Blaine over the years, and he helped just as many in one way or another. After retiring from fishing, he worked at Stafholt Good Samaritan Center where he befriended many of the staff and residents. Later he retired to his home until his passing.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Elizabeth Neily, and sister BettyAnn Turmene of San Francisco. He is survived by his brother Paul Neily of San Francisco, son Richard Wilson Neily lll of Blaine, daughters Deborah Polonsky of Mill Creek, Lynne Neily of Wenatchee and Christina Neily of Yucca Valley, CA. Many nieces, nephews, grandchildren as well as great grandchildren.
Family, friends and the community are invited to a celebration of life, Saturday, February 7 at 2:30 pm at the Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street, Blaine.
