Michael Neff

Obituary for Michael Vaun Neff

Michael Vaun Neff was born October 10, 1946, in Leesville, Louisiana, and died peacefully-with his family by his side-on March 6, 2017. Mike was awarded two purple hearts and a bronze star for his service during Vietnam, but his highest honor was being a loving husband to Anna Jo Neff, a phenomenal dad to Kelly and Lindsey, and the best "Pooh" ever to his five grandsons. For so many, he is the definition of a hero.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Science from Pan American University, where he played baseball-and serving his country in Vietnam- Mike spent many years i n the banking industry. But, his true professional calling was making a difference in the lives of young people. His favorite years were those he spent serving as a children's residential facilities supervisor while also coaching baseball. Many of the players Mike coached went on to experience successful careers in collegiate baseball and the major leagues. His love of the game is something he passed on to his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews-whether the game is baseball, golf, or the Dallas Cowboys. A big man with an even bigger heart and sense of humor, Mike brought a smile to everyone around him with his quick wit and funny zingers. His kindness knew no bounds.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of nearly 49 years, Anna Jo Neff; his daughter, Kelly Lackey and her husband, Mark; his daughter Lindsey Savant and her husband, Bradley; his grandsons: Colton, Drew, and Ethan Lackey and William and Benjamin Savant; his mother Robbie Lee Neff; his brother Jim Neff; his brother the Rev. Dr. Jerry Neff and wife Laura; his brother Steve Neff and wife Doris; sister-in� law Dorothy Howard and husband Benny; brother-in-law Joe A. Klinkovsky III and wife Susan; and sister-in-law Barbara Bennett and husband Tom. He is also survived by his lifelong friend Clay Hill and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews, who will miss him terribly.

He is preceded in death by his father, the Rev. James Thomas Neff; father-in-law Joe
A. Klinkovsky, Jr.; mother-i n-law Viola Klinkovsky; brother Mark Neff; sister-in-law Georgia Marek; brother-i n-law Perry Marek; and nephew Chad Marek.

Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at Columbia United Methodist Church in West Columbia, Texas. Burial will follow at Columbia Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday evening at Baker Funeral Home in West Columbia from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Serving as pallbearers, will be Spencer Bennett, Bruce Heintschel, Joe A. Klinkovsky IV, Andrew Neff, Jay Neff, Matthew Neff, Patrick Neff, and Zack Neff. Honorary pallbearers will be Clay Hill and the Columbia Angels baseball team.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Columbia United Methodist Church, Central Emergency Medical Services, or a charity of your choice.

Services are under the direction of Baker Funeral Home in West Columbia, 634 S. Columbia Dr. 77486. (979) 345-3232. Online condolences may be left for the family by signing the guestbook at www.bakerfuneralhome.net

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