Obituary of Neil James Whipple

Neil James Whipple was born on May 30, 1979 in Toledo, Ohio. He was the son of Neil E. Whipple and Lynn (Steinman) Mikels. Neil attended Mason Consolidated Schools graduating from high school in 1998. He would later go on to obtain his certification in small engine repair. In 1997, Neil was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident, and as a result, he became a paraplegic. Although in constant pain, he made the most of things having an extremely active lifestyle. Neil enjoyed riding 4-wheelers, kayaking, rock climbing, hand cycling, creating glass beads, and repairing small engines (which were usually his own 4-wheelers). Neil most of all enjoyed helping others, whether they were friends or strangers. Neil James Whipple, age 37, of Toledo passed away on Friday, November 11, 2016. His passing was preceded by his paternal grandparents: Norman and Betty Whipple and maternal grandparents: Paul and Dolores Steinman. To cherish his memory, Neil leaves his father of Punta Gorda, Florida, his mother and stepfather: Lynn and Paul Mikels of Erie; a sister: Amy Whipple (William Hines) of Erie; a stepbrother and sister, and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Neil will be greatly missed by his family, many faithful friends, and a constant four-legged companion, his dog: Bishop. Friends may gather on Sunday, November 20, 2016 from 3:00pm until 5:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway (734)241-7070. A Celebration of His Life will follow at 5:00pm also at Merkle’s. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family for funeral arrangements. Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.