Obituary of Neal David Footle

Neal David Footle was born April 14, 1954 in Chicago, Illinois, and passed away May 16, 2023, at the age of 69 from bladder cancer. He was preceded in death by his mother and father Muriel Dorothy (Polisky) and Marvin Footle, and is survived by his two sons Timothy (Marissa) and David (Jenny), and their mother Anne, who he enjoyed 34 years of marriage with. He also leaves behind his dear cousin Keely, and multiple nieces and nephews.

He grew up in Evanston, Illinois and attended Evanston Township High School, later receiving his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Physical Education from the University of Illinois Chicago (Chicago Circle). While at both, he competed in team gymnastics as a tumbler and gymnast, traveling the country and leaving his mark in many ways- including one broken disco floor after adding a backflip to his dance routine. After his schooling, Neal spent most of his career in sales of various kinds, as accurately predicted by his “King of Sales” award during his high school days. 

He volunteered much of his time with Special Olympics groups both in Chicagoland and most recently the Bowling League in Lakewood, Colorado. He spent many years as a leader and merit badge counselor for Boys Scouts of America and Scout Troop 20, long after his sons’ time in Scouting. In his decade-long tenure, Neal served as a member, leader, mentor, and coach for Toastmasters International, speaking across the country and winning numerous district, state, and regional awards. 

Through his many dabblings Neal made countless friends with his warm and personable spirit, naturally drawing people to him. He had an avid love for hummingbirds and made sure his back deck was a sanctuary for them full of multiple flowering plants and feeders.

He will be greatly missed by those who love him. Whenever you see a hummingbird, think of Neal.

Family and friends in the Denver area are welcome to attend an intimate gathering and celebration of Neal at his son David’s house on Thursday, June 15 from 4:00-6:00 pm, 

A formal memorial service and celebration of his life will be held in the Chicago suburbs in August. Please reach out to Footle2023@gmail.com for more information on either of these events. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to his daughter-in-law’s non-profit, Beautiful Feet Wellness, his favorite charity to support, are greatly appreciated.