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James P. Neaton Obituary – 7/4/2019


James Paul Neaton, age 100, of Watertown, passed away Thursday, July 4, 2019.

He was born Oct. 9, 1918, in Watertown, to Michael and Bridget (Burns) Neaton.

Jim was a lifelong resident of Watertown, and member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

He was born on the original Neaton homestead in Watertown Township, and took over the family farm in 1954.

Jim was active in the Farmers Union. In 1976, he was elected president of the Carver County Farmers Union, and served as president or vice president of the local chapter for many years.

An early adopter of environmentally-friendly farming practices, he was active in the Carver County Soil & Water Conservation District and was named Outstanding Conservation Farmer of the Year in 1978.

An active member of the Democrat (DFL) party, Jim often represented the area at district and state conventions. He most enjoyed being with his family and friends, and if there was a heated political discussion involved, that was the icing on the cake.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, neighbor, and accomplished story teller.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Monica; son Tom Gallus; parents Michael and Bridget Neaton; siblings Mary Kosel, Ed Neaton, Eileen Campbell, and Joe Neaton; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Cy Kosel, Francis Campbell, Art Borer, Tom Kuka, Don Speckel, Archie Kuka, Joe Kuka, Mary Neaton and Ann Neaton.

He is survived by his children: Bridget (Breeze) Neaton, Gerry Gallus, Steve (Amy) Gallus, Bob (Gail) Gallus, and Terry Gallus; eight grandchildren: Tyler Gallus, Cora (Cody) Hoffman, Jen (Oscar) Gallus, Alex Gallus, David (Sarah) Gallus, Josh Gallus, Zac Gallus, and Ben Gallus; a sister, Jane Borer; sisters-in-law Jo Neaton, Mary Speckel, Marion Kuka, and Mary Ann Kuka; four generations of nieces and nephews; and innumerable friends and neighbors.

Mass of Christian Burial took place Thursday, July 11 at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church in Watertown. Interment was in the church cemetery.

There was visitation Wednesday, July 10 from 4 to 8 p.m., continuing Thursday, from 10-11 a.m., all at Immaculate Conception Church.

Arrangements were with the Iten’s Watertown Chapel.

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