Joel Neary

Joel Wayne Neary, 52, was taken from us on May 13, 2017 at 4:33pm. Joey as he was affectionately known to family and friends lost a life long battle with life in general. He was surrounded by family at the time of his passing.

Joey was born on a nice sunny day, November 8th, 1964 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Joey fought to be born and fought to live life on his terms.

His younger years were spent in Crosby, Minnesota where he learned to laugh, love and live as only he could. After bouncing around the country doing many different jobs, Joey settled in Pocatello and decided that being an Union Iron Worker was for him.

He joined Ironworker Local #732 on September 1st of 1985 and broke-out 3 years later in 1988 on the same day. Working iron was the love of his life. He held many positions through the years, from a lonely "punk" to running whole jobs for many companies throughout the country and in Puerto Rico.

On January 4, 2002, Joe was severely hurt in a car accident where he lost the use of his legs, thus ending his days of dancing on the iron, but this didn't stop his zest for life. He took up skiing with C.W. Hog, four-wheeling, snow machining and white water rafting to keep him busy. He was also an avid hockey fan, with the Detroit Red Wings being "his" team.

Joey had many girlfriends and loves through his younger years including a brief marriage to Cindy Hardgrove. Later, on May 17, 1997 he married Laura Rees in Pocatello. A few years later they were blessed with a beautiful daughter Stevi Jo. With Taylor, Laura's son from a previous relationship, they had a perfect family and all was good.

Through many trials and difficulties, Laura has stuck by his side till the very end, and for that I thank you.

Joey is survived by his loving wife Laura; daughter Stevi Jo; step-son Taylor; mother Joyce Neary of Pocatello; father & step-mother Jim & Phyllis Neary of Great Falls. MT; brothers J.C. "Bonz" Neary of Pocatello and Jeff "Acer" Neary of Pocatello; his ever present companions Bear and Wubbers the Dogs of McCammon; several nieces and nephews; along with many others that knew him.
He was preceded in death by his both sets of grandparents and many dear friends including his "Pard" Teddy Dunbar.

Upon his request, Joey was cremated and there will be a celebration of his life on Saturday, May 20th 2017 at 2:00pm at OK Ward Park. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be provided, please bring your favorite dish to share.

We are taking Joey for 1 last ride. We'll meet up at the Brother Speed Clubhouse between 12:30&1:30. Kickstand up at 1:30 for a short but meaningful ride to the park. All are welcome to come celebrate with us the life that Joey led. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family under the "Tribute Wall" tab above.