Karen (Marshall) Neal

Karen (Marshall) Neal, age 72, of Hancock, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on February 24, 2026.

She was born January 3, 1954 in Berlin, the daughter of Russell and Charlotte (Ellis) Marshall. Karen grew up in the Hancock area and graduated from Tri-County High School in 1972. She was 16 years old when she started waitressing at the Plainfield Truck Stop where she  worked off and on for many years and where she met Archie Neal, “the love of her life”. They were married on May 4, 1984 and worked as team semi-truck drivers for over 27 years.

For many years she enjoyed playing softball, even against her sister Donna. Later, she and Archie would shoot pool and go golfing together while they resided in Florida for over 20 years. Karen loved to cook for family and friends. She enjoyed visits to Wisconsin as often as possible. Karen loved her boisterous family and enjoyed riding her moped with her sisters. Of course, there was never a dull moment with her dear friends, Sharon, Bernadette and Carol. She will be deeply missed by her loving family and friends.

She is survived by one sister, Judy Ward; two brothers, Darrell (Judy) Marshall and Lloyd Marshall; brother-in-law, Andy Jeffery. She is further survived by dear nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, stepfamily, other relatives and friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband Archie on January 19, 2010; her parents, Russell and Charlotte Marshall; two sisters, Donna Jeffery and Jen Marshall; brother-in-law, Bob Ward; and by her niece, Lisa Marshall.

A Celebration of Life will be announced. Karen will be laid to rest next to her husband at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. The Leikness Funeral Home of Wautoma is assisting the family with arrangements. www.leiknessfuneralhome.com

The family extends a very special thank you to Heartland Hospice for their loving and compassionate care of Karen.