Neal James Momchilovich, 74, passed away at his home on February 25, 2019. He was born September 12, 1944 to Milan "Mike" and Ethel Momchilovich in Cumberland, Wisconsin.
Neal graduated high school in Joplin, Missouri in 1963. He then attended the University of Wisconsin. He played football for the Wisconsin Badgers.
Neal proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged after having earned the rank of Army Specialist 4 (T). He earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal and was an expert Rifleman. After serving he returned to Joplin, MO and went to work for Coca-Cola as Regional Manager. Neal was heavily involved in the Joplin Chapter of the Jaycees. He was instrumental in starting the Joplin Special Olympics.
Neal met his wife Cathy Cappitelli in 1977 and they married in 1980. In 1979 he relocated his family to Olathe, Kansas to partner with his brother David in the commercial glass business. In 1981 they started Olathe Lighting Center. In 1984 M&R Glass was formed and continues to this day.
Neal loved spending time on the lake with his family boating, fishing, skiing and cruising at high rates of speeds. Neal was an avid golfer and enjoyed spending as much time on the golf course as possible. He was blessed with many dear friends.
He is survived by his loving wife Cathy of 38 years, his daughters Jill Baker and her husband Darren of Carl Junction, MO, Leslie Thacker and her husband Bart Goddard of Olathe, KS; his sister Linda Dilbeck and her husband Lyndon and their children and nephews Steve Momchilovich and Jack Momchilovich Jr.; Grandchildren include Taylor Momchilovich, Ashton Baker, Robert, Billy and Brittany Baker, Logan Goddard; 4 Great Grandchildren and dear ones Shelby and Madisyn Warner.
Neal is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Jack Momchilovich, Brother David Momchilovich and Sister Marlene French.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:
Lodge of Hope-Peterson Outdoor Ministries
9949 County Ln 212,
Webb City, MO 64870
P.O. Box 469
online at
Peterson Outdoor Ministries.Or
Olathe Special Olympics
200 W. Santa Fe St.
Olathe, KS 66061
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