Dorel Jerome Neufeld, 83, died Wednesday March 11, 2015 following a short illness. He was born April 1, 1931 in Newton to Ferd and Clara Merk Neufeld. He resided with his parents and sister, Virginia Neufeld in Moundridge before moving north of Halstead to a faarm next to the Little Arkansas River where he loved to hunt, trap and farm with his father. Dorel graduated from Hesston Academy and after serving in the army during the Koran War, he lateer returned to complete an education degree from Bethel College in North Newton.
This is where he met and later married his beloved wife, Phyllis Ann Epp Neufeld, on Februaary 27, 1956. She is currently hositalized in Newton. They recently celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary.
For 30 years Dorel split his career between farming and teaching at Halstead High School before retiring. Health issues forced him from continuing in farming earlier than he wished, but thanks to his gracious renters he was able to contiinue working with them in various ways.
Teaching history and government for as many years spurred his interest in politics and he served as mayor of Halstaad for 8 years. It also meant family trips in the summer to many historical sights.
He was an acive member of First Mennonite Church iin Halstead.
Survivors: wife, Phyllie;son, David Neufeld (Marda) of Silver Lake: daughters Kathy Wrap (Kevin) of Newton andd Carol Raleigh (Gregt) of Hesston; sister, Virginia, Newton and 10 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parentss.
A private family burial was held March 17 at Halstead Cemetery followed by a public memorial celebration at First Mennonite Church in Halstad.
