Mike Joseph Neal
Obituary
Michael (Mike) Joseph Neal, a man of quiet strength, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025, after a valiant battle with cancer. He was 83 years old. Born on September 4, 1941, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Mike was the son of Helen Marie Brady and Roland Walter Neal. He is survived by his loving wife, Catherine Campbell Neal; his daughter, Sarah (Tim) Gilpin; stepdaughter, Amy (Mark) Johnson and cherished grandchildren, Tate and Emma Johnson. He is also survived by his siblings, Peggy Lou Neal and Jim (Jean) Neal; and his beloved nieces and nephews: Steve Neal, Joanie (Jerry) Straessle, Peggy Craig, Jim (Peggy) Neal, Jr., Helen (Justin) Neal, Tom Neal, and Jackson (Elise) Neal. Mike was preceded in death by his parents; his brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Mary Jo Neal; his brother-in-law, Jim Plummer; and his nephew Joe (Sarah) Neal.
Mike’s long and successful career at Deluxe earned him the respect of his colleagues and peers. After retiring, he and his wife of almost 33 years enjoyed traveling and made volunteering a shared priority. An avid cyclist, Mike cherished the camaraderie of weekly rides with close friends. He also enjoyed golfing with family and never missed a chance to explore challenging hiking trails. Whether on local paths, trekking through national parks or walking his faithful companion, Chuy, Mike found peace and joy in the great outdoors.
A memorial service will be held at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church in Tulsa on Saturday, June 14th, at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to organizations that Mike supported, such as Meals on Wheels, Alzheimer’s Association or Parkinson’s Foundation. They also encourage you to take time to enjoy the outdoors, just as he did.
Events
Tributes & Memories
I regret and am deeply saddened that I have only just today, learned of Mikes recent health challenges and passing. Mike and I were new sales representatives with Deluxe in 1967. We met in the National Sales headquarters in Chicago while receiving our sales training. His first territory was in Arizona, mine was South Texas. We became great friends and stayed in touch for more than 50 years. Retirement, life, and family kept us from getting together as much as we would like but tried often. Much in common, including his love for his TR and Miata and me and my 56’ Chevy and antique tractor. Mikes’ love for Cathy and my love for my Shirley were always front and center during our conversations and correspondence. I will miss him. Gods Peace and our love from Texas dear friend! Lin Melson North Richland Hills, Texas
Lin Melson
I had the pleasure of knowing Mike through our careers at Deluxe Corporation. Mike was the consummate professional as our sales representative for Deluxe in the Tulsa market. He developed our market presence there with deep relationships with our clients on the front line, in back room operations, and the corner office. Mike was “Mr. Deluxe” to all. But Mike always knew how to keep a balance with family, fun on the golf course, or riding his bike, and not taking himself too seriously. He was 100% genuine. R.I.P. Mike, the bike trails go on forever now. With deep respect to a friend and colleague, Patrick Montgomery
Patrick Montgomery
I'm just now seeing this on facebook about Mike passing away and here it is July! I remember Mike coming into the office at Deluxe, he was always so upbeat and and would always take the time to say speak, he was well liked by all of us in the OKC Deluxe plant. Prayers for his family
Betty Ross
Thoughts and prayers are with Mike's family and friends. I was blessed to be a caregiver for Mike during his last weeks. He talked so much about his love for family, friends and travel. Mike will be missed by so many, especially Cathy and Chuy.
Janet Selzer
Funeral Home Owner