Obituary of Thomas J. Neelen

Thomas J. Neelen, 76, of Willard Street, died Wednesday, November 3, 2021, in his home. Tom was born March 3, 1945, in Lockport, NY, a son of the late Harold and Gladys Mattson Neelen. Tom had fond memories of his Jamestown childhood days in the family home on "Swede Hill" with the Johnny Boy ice cream truck, kick the can and sandlot football. He was president of the Jamestown High School Class of 1963. He was a member of Braw Caddie Clan, the Thespian Society, and the YMCA's Co-Ed Club. For many years he was active in planning class reunions, thoroughly enjoying reconnecting with classmates. Following high school, he graduated from Allegheny College in 1967 with a BA in History. While there, he was an Alden Scholar, elected president of Pi Gamma Mu Social Sciences Honorary and a member of Phi Delta Theta. He went on to obtain his MS Ed in 1968 from Indiana University where he enjoyed Big Ten Football games. Tom began employment in admissions at Upsala College in East Orange, NJ. He then joined the University Relations Department of Union Carbide Corporation at the company's world headquarters in New York City. He was very active in professional organizations and was elected vice president of the National Association of Colleges and Employers, served as president of the Board of the Eastern College Personnel Officers and received that organization's "Distinguished Service Award." He returned to his Jamestown family home to care for his ill mother. He was active locally in the antiques scene, enjoying auctions, estate sales, flea markets and one memorable visit to "Antiques Roadshow" with his brother Craig. Proud of his Swedish heritage, Tom was a longtime member of Ingjald Lodge Independent Order of Vikings. He was a third-generation member of First Lutheran Church where he served on church council and several committees. Tom was socially and politically progressive, believing we are our brothers' keeper. He most often favored the underdog and believed in the importance of maintaining a sense of humor. Surviving is a brother Craig (Cynthia) Neelen of Pittsburgh, PA; nephew Matthew Neelen of Washington, PA, and niece Anne (Dr. John) McKnight of Morgantown, WV. Besides his parents he was preceded in death by a brother Robert Neelen. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. December 11, 2021, in the chapel of First Lutheran Church. Inurnment will be in Lake View Cemetery. Friends will be received for one hour prior to the service in the church. Memorials may be made to First Lutheran Church, 120 Chandler Street, Jamestown, NY 14701 or Tree of Life Food Pantry, 825 Forest Avenue, Jamestown, NY 14701. You may leave words of condolence at www.lindfuneralhome.com.