DON NEER Broadcasting Executive, Chamber Advocate, and Charitable Vocalist, Don L. Neer passed away peacefully in hospice care on July 11, 2025, in Naples, Fla., at the age of 84.
Born on February 3, 1941, into Lee and Nadine Neer’s large, loving family, Don was the youngest of eight children. He built a 35-year career in radio broadcasting, including over 20 years in Joliet, Ill., where he served as head of sales at WJOL. Joliet is where Don and his beloved wife, Linda, raised their daughters and formed lifelong friendships. After retiring from broadcasting, Don brought his energy and leadership to Southwest Florida, serving as director of member services at Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce. There, he helped lead the Chamber to a post-recession membership high, working tirelessly to connect businesses and build community. Don took great pride in his work and in the life he built. He was also widely known for his powerful singing voice – recognized since high school – and often performed for charitable organizations and local causes. He served as an elder at Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church in Naples and was known for his volunteerism, wit, and strong moral compass.
Don was preceded in death by his wife, Linda K (Daniels) Neer, and his grandson, Ryan Feeley. He is survived by daughters J. Christine (Neer) Feeley and Loree L. (Neer) Hendry; his son-in-law Sean Feeley; grandchildren Tyler Hendry and Kathleen Feeley; his sister Jane Mead of Brookfield; and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
A celebration of life will be held at First Christian Church in Brookfield, MO; on Saturday, September 20 at 2:30 p.m. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery in Brookfield, MO. Arrangements are under the direction of Rhodes Funeral Home, Brookfield, MO.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church of Naples or Avow Hospice of Naples in honor of Don’s memory.
Deceased’s Funeral ArrangementsA celebration of life will be held at First Christian Church in Brookfield, MO; on Saturday, September 20 at 2:30 p.m. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery in Brookfield, MO. Arrangements are under the direction of Rhodes Funeral Home, Brookfield, MO.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church of Naples or Avow Hospice of Naples in honor of Don’s memory.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
