Neal Otis Rakestraw 73 , born in Sterling, Kansas, to Otis and Shirley Rakestraw, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on September 10, 2024. A man of deep passion, integrity, and resilience, Neal lived a life marked by dedication to his family, his work, and his country.
In his early years, after a few relocations, Neal attended Argonia High School, where his passion for boxing, sparked by training with neighborhood kids under his father's guidance, led him to excel in wrestling. After graduating, Neal embraced a migratory lifestyle, joining the Air Force and proudly serving his country. Upon his return, he ventured into the oilfield industry, where he fully embraced the "Roughneck" lifestyle for a time before exploring various fields of work.

Neal eventually found his niche in sales, first with Swan's and later in the restaurant industry. His outgoing personality, warm heart, and willingness to talk to anyone made him a natural fit for this work, as he never met a stranger.

Neal was a man of many passions. His love for animals, especially Dobermans, was well known, as was his passion for cooking and grilling. Even after losing the ability to swallow food, he continued to find joy in cooking for others, bringing family and friends together through his culinary skills.

Above all, Neal was a dedicated family man. He worked hard, always excelling in whatever he put his mind to, and he was known for his unwavering integrity. He loved spending time with his family and took great pride in being a father and grandfather.

Neal was preceded in death by his parents, Otis and Shirley Rakestraw, and his brothers, Glenn and Leland Rakestraw. He is survived by his daughters, Richelle Rakestraw and Leigh Bryant (Josh), and his beloved grandchildren, Nathan and Natalie Worth, and Bo, Eric, Mason, and William Bryant. Neal is also survived by his best friend, Delma Gerberding, and his nieces and nephews, Monte, Angela, Ian, and Susan (Jim).

Neal's life will be remembered for his hard work, kind heart, and the deep connections he made with everyone around him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and devotion to his family and friends.