Joseph William Neal Port St. Lucie, Florida Obituary

Joseph William Neal

Joseph William Neal AKA RetroJoe/Surfing Joe October 24, 1951- September 8, 2020 Joe passed peacefully in his sleep in his own home; with his life partner of 16+ years Sarah Walther by his side. He is survived by: Daughter Kate Fura (Neal) and her spouse Tom Fura, son Michael J Neal and his spouse Dayna Regis Neal; two sisters Cathryn Brown, and Janet Smith; their families and many friends. Life long Musician, Joe started playing guitar and bass in high school. Over the years, he played with many bands and friends, while growing his skills and many other musical talents along the way. Joe played in numerous local bands in the Stuart area; such as Lucky and the Driftwoods, Major Nelsons and The Nitros, meeting his significant other along the way. He always said that one of the greatest moments in life was during a trip to the UK in 2004, when having lunch at The Cavern Club, in Liverpool he was recognized by a group of locals sitting at the next table! They had seen him playing with Lucky and the Driftwoods at the Jolly Sailor in Stuart, FL. They convinced the 'house band' playing that day to “Go on let him play, he's great!” Instead of playing a few songs, the band continued for hours trying to stump him on Beatle and British Invasions songs. Joe studied and was inspired by photography his entire life. Urban Wasteland, Street and O. Winston Link's black and white photography were a few of his biggest influences. Joe was well traveled and always wanted to see more of the world. Including the many states he visited within his own country, he also toured Canada, China, Germany, Mexico and the UK on several occasions. He would make each day special and full of adventure. He was known for always having a good time and making new friends wherever he went. Whether it be a spontaneous day trip, or planned event, Joe was always excited to try something new! He had a wide range of interests and hobbies; some of his favorites being music, history and trivia. He loved to play with words, Joe was the King of puns and always had a joke to brighten your day. He is leaving a major gap in the world, and will be missed more than words can say. Per his personal wishes he will be cremated and there will be no official visitation or services.
October 24, 1951 - September 8, 202010/24/195109/08/2020
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5 trees planted in memory of Joseph William Neal.
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Russ and Bonnie Burrell
September 19, 2020
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Barbara Jordan
April 18, 2021
Barbara Jordan
February 6, 2021
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david opasik
December 17, 2020
S
Sarah
November 11, 2020
Originally from Washington, D.C., RetroJoe moved to Florida in 1988. He played with many local bands in Maryland in the '60's and '70's, and around the Treasure Coast since 1992, and is best known for being lead guitarist of Lucky and the Driftwoods from 1996-2004. Retro... Continue Reading
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Sarah
October 18, 2020
Vanessa Nickens
October 18, 2020
Vanessa Nickens
October 18, 2020
Vanessa Nickens
October 18, 2020
Vanessa Nickens
October 18, 2020
Joe, It's been one month and ten days since you passed and I think of you every single day. Mostly, it's the fond memories we shared over the last twelve years, but sometimes I'm still trying to wrap my head around the fact that I can't pick up the phone and call you fo... Continue Reading
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Sarah Walther
September 25, 2020