Donald Eugene Neitz

Donald Eugene Neitz completed his life journey on October 12, 2026, at the age of 85, at the William Childs Hospice House in Palm Bay, FL. Don was born on June 26, 1941, and raised in Odell, Illinois. He met the love of his life, Elizabeth, while serving in the U.S. Army at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. After marrying, they moved to West Palm Beach, FL, where they raised their family: Daniel, Nancy, and Ken.

Don started his career with Florida Power & Light and participated in various bowling and softball leagues. He also enjoyed playing billiards and card games with family and friends. Don coached his sons in basketball and baseball and attended every game possible throughout their high school and college careers. Don cherished the time he spent with his wife supporting her business, Old-Timer's Antique Mall. They traveled together throughout Europe especially Germany and England as well as many national conventions selling Steiff Bears, antiques and collectibles. In 1997, Don retired from FP&L after thirty years of service following his first cancer diagnosis. With the love and support of his family and friends, his warrior spirit refused to give in to his disease. He shared in the joy of his grandchildren's births, dancing at the weddings of his granddaughters; Stephanie, Kristen and Jenni, his sixtieth wedding anniversary, and the welcoming of three great-grandchildren; Emma, Cole, and Trevor - with a fourth on the way.

After his wife passed away in 2024, Don spent his mornings sitting in his driveway greeting his passing neighbors and giving treats to their dogs. He would give daily updates to his sons on just how many dogs had stopped by for a visit. Don also went to every family graduation, birthday and anniversary he could physically attend. 

Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife of sixty years, Elizabeth (Neal) Neitz; his parents, Orville and Vera Neitz; his brother, Leroy Neitz; his son, Dennis Neitz; his grandson, Benjamin Neitz; his brother-in-law William Fish and his sister-in-law Marilynn Neal. 

Don is survived by his sons, Daniel (Lisa) Neitz and Kenneth (Lora) Neitz; and daughter Nancy (Jon) Lambert; grandchildren; Kristen (Ben) Williams, K.J. Neitz, Jenni (Chance) Baker, Matthew Neitz, Bradford Lambert, Benjamin Lambert, Braydon Lambert, Stephanie (Ryan) Duffield, and Daniel (Patty) Peterson; great grandchildren; Emma Williams, Cole Williams and Trevor Duffield; his sister, Joyce Fish and his brother-in-law, Robert Neal.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the William Childs Hospice House through the Health First Foundation at https://www.hf.org/healthcare-home/health-first-foundation/make-donation.