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Dale Cazier posted a condolence
Thursday, February 25, 2016
I just discovered that Mr. Neufang died, today 25 February 2016 at 1:00 PM Frankfurt, Germany time. It affected me as though it just happened that minute. It hurt me as though it was my own father.
Mr. Neufang had the most profound influence on my life, and probably all the students that were fortunate enough to have him as a Social Studies teacher. I knew him from my 8th grade class in 1965-66. He also taught my two sisters.
His most notorious comment was always in response to someone raising their hand and declaring that some particular situation or activity was "not fair." I am sure all of you remember this! He would say, "Nothing in life is fair!" It was always entertaining and I looked forward to his class so much.
He inspired me, and to this day I remember his words of encouragement. Once, I had an idea to start my own business by selling chewing gum at the school. I couldn't believe how easy it was to buy a 5 cent pack of gum, and then bring in and sell it in school for 10 cents. It was wonderful. Mr. Neufang told me, "Dale, please keep in touch with me. You're going to be a millionaire some day."
I never forgot, and had always planned to stop by Baldwinsville again, drive to his little house and knock on the door. I could not wait to see the look on his face.
God bless you Mr. Neufang!
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Rick Dowd - Boston, MA posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
To Mrs. Neufang and the rest of the family:
I express my deepest sympathies for your great loss of a great man. I was very upset that I could not get up to B'ville last week to express my thoughts in person. For that, I apologize.
I had many interactions with Coach Bill. He was my 7th grade Social Studies teacher, my football coach for several years and a father of one my best friends. I can honestly say that he had a positive influence on my life. I remember specifically that he would challenge me in the classroom and on the football field. He showed me that he believed in me and that meant a lot. He did it with grace, a strong hand and always with a sense of humor. He had strong opinions and was not afraid to let them be known (and some of his apples didn't fall far from the tree, that is for sure). For all that, I am lucky to have known him and blessed to have learned from him.
Again, my deepest condolences and hope to see you all soon.
Rick
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Pete Berry - Raleigh, NC posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Mr. Neufang,
You made a difference. To this day I remember fondly the way you made history interesting. I have spoken of you many times to my 16 year old son. He is quite the history buff. Maybe, just maybe, he will turn out a little like you!
Cheers,
Pete Berry
Class of 1979
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James Segovis - Smithfield, Rhode Island posted a condolence
Monday, June 27, 2011
I am sorry hear of Mr. Neufang's passing. I enjoyed having him as a teacher in 7th grade and as a coach a top level professional. He was one of the excellent teachers at Baldwinsville who inspired me to become a teacher. He had high standards and was a model of integrity.
In 7th grade, he asked everyone if we ever heard of Vietnam. Of course this was the very beginning of sending some advisors. No one did. Then he said, you better learn about it because many of you (the men) may be asked to fight there. He was prescient. In football, I remember him teaching the team the single wing one year. He was dashing, spinning, and running it like he was still a young star.
I will always appreciate knowing him and he will always be remembered.
Sincerely,
Jim Segovis, Baldwinsville - Class of 1966
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Lou Jerome Kennedy - Naples, FL posted a condolence
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Weezie and family,
Always smiling, encouraging others, a loss to his family and community. His act of kindness to my brother Jim was greatly appreciated.
My prayers are with you all.
T
Tammy (Scherfling) Smith - Rome, NY posted a condolence
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Dear Neufang Family:
It wasn't until late Friday afternoon that I learned of Mr. Neufang's passing. I recall the days at St. Mark's with the entire Neufang family as well as the years in school with Bill Jr. and Mr. Neufang. There were many fond memories.
In the days, weeks and years to follow...God Bless!
S
Suzanne Ellis - Baldwinsville, NY posted a condolence
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Dear Neufang family,
I knew nothing of Mr. Neufang's passing until church this morning, even though I sadly make a point of reading the obit page every day in The Post-Standard. But I was very sick all week with a pneumonia-like illness and didn't read the paper a couple of days, including the day his obituary ran. Had I known, I most certainly would've attended the service for him at St. Mark's and I deeply regret not having been there. Mr. Neufang (even as old as I am, I still respected him so much and calling him "Bill" never seemed right!) remains to this day one of my favorite teachers of all time and I believe my brothers and my children would say the same. God bless all of you in this difficult time, and RIP Mr. Neufang.
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Tim Coville - Long Island, NY posted a condolence
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Dear Neufang Family, My sincere sympathy to all of you. I am a Baldwinsville alum and had Mr Neufang as a teacher and a coach. I honestly often think of your father and smile as I remember him telling my 7th grade classmates and I that we owed it to our country to not settle for being average that we had a responsibilty to excel. I am a teacher now, but I'll never have his delivery. We were all blessed to have known him. May God's peace be with you all.
M
Mary Ellen Gillespie Hollis - Delray Beach, FL posted a condolence
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Dear Mrs. Neufang, Kathy and Greg and all the Neufang family. I am so sorry to learn of Mr. Neufang's passing. He was a wonderful teacher and a lovely man. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
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Bill Neufang Jr - Clay NY posted a condolence
Saturday, June 25, 2011
My Father's Eulogy:
On behalf of my mother, sisters and brother, I want to than you all for coming today and to my family, WOW, what a ride this has been.
Many years ago, my father stood in front of family and friends preparing to eulogize his mother. That day he asked everyone there to allow him patience and understanding, should he break down and today I ask the same from you.
Born three weeks prior to the great depression, my father often joked he was destined to live in poverty. Nothing could have been farther from the truth. The oldest of six, he grew up surrounded by family, and naturally played part time care taker to his younger siblings. Dad learned the value of honesty, and hard work and of course, the importance of family. These would be the driving principles he would live his life by and so, along with my Mom, passed these virtues along to his children and grand children, but also to the thousands of students and athletes he guided for over 30 years.
My father loved his community. Short of detailing his long and successful resume, he was actively involved in everything from village politics, winning local elections, to working with local agencies assisting the needy, to helping build this very church from it's inception and obviously education and athletics, while always counseling and inspiring B'ville's youth.
He loved teaching and coaching the most and these two endevors were not only labors of love, but the fuel that energized his soul. I can remember him on several occasions driving past Ray Middle School long after he retired, rolling down the car window and saying to all in the building, especially to the faculty, "You don't know how good you have it." At the time, I wasn't sure if the was referring to how much he missed being there or how lucky they were not to have him there anymore! I understand now.
His successes too many to mention and frankly, his failures too few to remember. To this day, my mom, sisters, brother and I are forever be reminded, whereever we go, whoever we meet, that everyone knew Mr. Neufang. They will say, he was my teacher, he was my coach, he was my collegue or simply, he was my friend and on and on. And these encounters often ended with please say hello to your father and thank him for me. He was the best (fill in the blank), I ever had. I could literally go on and on with these individual stories, but you get the idea.
In some regard my father was an institution in this town for over 3 decades. The impact he had on the youth of this community is and will continue to be quietly missed.
Dad would want you all to know just how much he appreciates you being here today to remember him and in doing so, he would not want to miss the opportunity to teach one more time. So here goes.....
My father loved his wife, children and grandchildren so much that he battled his cancer far longer than expected, because he could not bear to leave us. But he rests today knowing he leaves us all in great hands, well prepared, because of the lessons he taught us, the gifts he gave us and his unwaivering, unconditional love he blessed us with.
In a time when we honor people by naming buildings, events and fields after them, we can all honor him today and going forward by following his lead. He would ask you to do something, anything, to benefit your children and the children of your community. By helping a child in need, by helping children to grow and prosper through education and the virtues of honesty and hardwork, these will help us all build better, stronger communities. That is his lesson to us all. That is his legacy. He would ask that of you today. Actually, he would insist upon it.
Thank you all again for being here today with my family to celebrate my fathers life, and celebrate we will.
K
Kurt Neufang - Efland, NC posted a condolence
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Some thoughts about my Godfather:
My Uncle Bill Neufang was a wonderful man. He had a passion for teaching, coaching and mentoring young people. As his nephew, I saw many sides of him and we both shared some unique interactions. He was direct, blunt and was never in search of an opinion. However, he also possessed a gentle spirit and was a man of character who loved family and was devoted to his community. As many people did, I called him Coach. He had a great work ethic and knew that to overcome adversity, it took hard work and effort. He was a veteran who loved our country and the values associated with the founding of our great nation.
I loved my Uncle Bill and I will truly miss him.
A couple memories to share:
On one occasion, I was quarterbacking the Bishop Ludden JV football team in a controlled scrimmage game against BVille. My Uncle Bill was the head coach of the Baldwinsville team and was a loud presence out on the field. There was a play where I threw a 15-yard out pass to one of our receivers and the ball got knocked down by a BVille defensive back. The defender made a good play on the ball. While going back to our huddle, my Uncle Bill came over to me and told me that I needed to make the throw before my receiver makes his break. Good advice. Good coaching
.from the opposing coach! In the huddle before the next play, I was asked by my teammates, Who is that guy? I responded and said, Hes my Godfather.
My senior year in High School, I played football for the Solvay Bearcats. Our team was playing in the Section III Championship game at Coyne Field. My Uncle Bill was working as the announcer in the press box for the game and introduced the starting line-ups for the offense and defensive units. On this particular fall afternoon, he made a point to also introduce the starting place-kicker....me. When asked by my teammates, Who is that guy? I told them with a smile, Hes my Godfather.
One of the qualities I admired about my Uncle Bill, was that he never forgot his roots. He was proud to have grown up on Belle Isle Road and took pleasure in recounting stories about his childhood and his family. He was a wonderful brother to my Dad, a devoted husband to my Aunt Mary and a loving son to my grandparents. My Uncle was very proud of his kids, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He and my Aunt Mary always remembered my birthday, my wedding anniversary, the birthdays of my children and always made a point to send a thoughtful gift for Christmas.
I know he was very giving and was very much a part of the fabric of the Baldwinsville community. I was very proud that he was active in his church and I know that God had blessed him with a servants heart. Service, commitment, and honoring your word
..these were important qualities to my Uncle Bill and ones he exemplified through how he lived his life. I think that there are certain qualities that my cousins have, that are in direct correlation to growing up in this loving family: Kathys temperance, Billys candor, Karls fortitude and Nancys compassion all stem from a father and mother who love their children.
Im old enough to remember that little Pink house on Curtis Ave and such good times we have all had together through the years. Time passes quickly, but as believers, we know that there is hope beyond this life. It is a blessing to have so many family members and friends to help provide loving support to my Aunt Mary and my cousins during this time. My thoughts a prayers go out to my Aunt Mary and my cousins, Kathy, Billy, Karl and Nancy and all the extended family.
Im sorry that I was not able to attend the funeral and Im sorry that I could not be there to share in your grief. However, as Christians, we know that God is always in control. I know that my Uncle Bill is in heaven not because of his good works, but because he knew Jesus as his personal savior. I take comfort in knowing that someday, ..I will see my Uncle Bill again.
You see, my Uncle Bill blessed my life and I am grateful for the fact that I told him so -and told him many times that I loved him.
May Gods mercy and grace be with all the Neufang family during this time.
Kurt J. Neufang, A Proud Godson
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Dan and Debbie Walker - Marcellus, NY posted a condolence
Friday, June 24, 2011
Dear Karl, Tracy and family, Dan and I are so sorry to hear about your Dad. We know he will be missed deeply and you have our sincerest sympathies. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Hugs,
Dan and Debbie
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Joyce Baker - Saint Petersburg, Florida posted a condolence
Friday, June 24, 2011
Hi Mary, Bill and Carl,
I was shocked to hear about the passing of Bill. He was a good guy and we use to enjoy many of our wrestling experiences. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Miss you!!!
Joyce Baker
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Regina DeBottis Sheehan - Fayetteville, NY posted a condolence
Friday, June 24, 2011
Dear Nancy and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss and that I am not able to see you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
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michael lombard - lakeland, FL posted a condolence
Friday, June 24, 2011
to mrs.neufang and my cousin Kathy, i am sorry to hear of the loss of your husband and your dad. no matter if it is sudden or just "a matter of time" I can only guess how difficult it must be. I do know that it is good to have plenty of family around at a time like this. i had seen your dad (and mom) a few times over the last 38 years and it was always great to talk to him. it always took me back to school days and football practice. "coach" always tried to get the best out of us, and i will never forget what he would say to us if we had a slight injury or bruise, and that was "WEAR IT LIKE A BADGE" and be proud of it. Kath, i hope you and greg and your family are well. take care and my best wishes to you, mrs. neufang
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Tim and Jennifer Owens - Boston Ma/Syr posted a condolence
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Karl,Tracy and The Neufang Family
We are sorry to hear of the loss of your father. Our Prayers are with you.
J
Jim Diamond - B'ville posted a condolence
Thursday, June 23, 2011
To The family of Mr. Neufang, my deepest sympathy. Few people had the passion for his family, the kids he taught and coached, along with B'ville as Mr. Neufang had. Heaven just gained...
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Vicki Valentino-Renne current - Cleveland,NY posted a condolence
Thursday, June 23, 2011
I am very sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with your family.
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Donsld Murdock - Chittenango, NY posted a condolence
Thursday, June 23, 2011
I was drafted with Bill in 1951 and went throughg basic training with him. I am now 81 years old myself but reading of his death brought back enough memories of those days for me to look for and find a picture of the 2nd Platoon 786th Petroleum Supply co. taken after we completed basic training at Ft. Devens, Mass April 21, 1951. There are several from Syracuse and Central New York in that picture and I have lost track of most of them but I do remember Bill and his ever present smile. The death of any of my contemporaries diminishes me.
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Chrissy (Dale) Soper - Caz. NY posted a condolence
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Kathy and Greg, I'm so sorry for your loss.
J
Judy Rheome-DeSantis - 57 Spears posted a condolence
Thursday, June 23, 2011
My deepest sympathy to the Neufang family. I remember Mr. Neufang from my days in middle school. An excellent teacher, but more so, a devoted father. He was a great supporter of our high school musicals, and a supportive presence during all the rehearsals. I was friends with Nancy, and remember her parents being so devoted. The Baldwinsville Community has lost one of its most avid champions, and is a better place because of Mr. Neufang.
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Former - Player posted a condolence
Thursday, June 23, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Neufang family. Coach not only taught us how to block and tackle, but also how to become responsible young men. It has been several years since I last saw Coach, but I think of him often as he is a constant role model in my daily efforts to raise my own teenage children. He influenced a lot of kids in the B'ville community and he will be missed.
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charlie hamm - baldwinsville, ny posted a condolence
Thursday, June 23, 2011
my thoughts and prayers are with mrs. neufang and her family.
mr. neufang was a fine man, a great teacher and a great coach.
T
The Lalla Family - Baldwinsville,NY posted a condolence
Thursday, June 23, 2011
With heavy hearts and watery eyes we pass along our deepest sympathy and condolences on the passing of COACH BILL. The tears that are shed only attest to the loss of a great husband, father, teacher, coach, and friend.
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John (Jack) Mallan - Manlius, NY posted a condolence
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Bill was a good man. I was on the B-ville faculty when he was first hired. Hiring Bill was one of the better personnel decisions made by the district.He has touched many and influenced many more both in the classroom and outside.He was great to work with.He will be missed.
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Bert Maloff - Florida posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
I worked at Ray with Bill for many years He was a most devoted husband, father, teacher, coach and friend. He will be remembered for his strong values and good deeds. He will be missed.
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Barbara Blair Tully - Gettysburg, Pa. posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Mary Louise, and the Neufang Family. Please accept my deepest sympathy on the passing of Bill. He will be missed by so many people that he has touched over the years, and especially his family. You are all in my prayers.
T
The Hannon Family - Clearwater Florida posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Your dad has a super family and was blessed to have a great life. I know he enjoyed coaching, but he loved watching Zach go from a little kid playing sports to an athlete. Tom Hannum
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Marion - North Syracuse posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Mr. Neufang was my Social Studies in Jr. High.
Nice man.
Sorry for the family loss.
A
Andrew Parker - baldwinsville posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
A great loss to the Baldwinsville community.
My condolences to the Neufang family.
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Stevejohnson - cortland n y posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
To the family sorry for your lose. to bill and karl, didn"t know your dad that well and haven't seen you in years you dad always treated me fair in school and sports he'll be missed! take care and god bless
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Wendy Knafelc - E. Syracuse, NY posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
To the Neufang family, my deepest condolences to you all, especially Nancy, who I went to school with. May you all find comfort in knowing how many hearts he touched, how many minds he molded and how he now rests in peace in the glory of heaven.
Wendy Knafelc
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Susan Pierce - Pennellville, NY posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Sympathy to the Neufang family. Mr. Neufang was one teacher I always remembered with fondness.
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John Kanaley - North Syracuse posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
I would like to send my deepest sympathy to the Neufang family. Mr. Neufang was a great teacher and leader in the Baldwinsville community. He was my Social Studies teacher in 7th grade. One of our assignments was to memorize all of the U.S State Capitals. To this day, I know all of them. The Baldwinsville community will certainly miss Mr. Neufang. All my prayers go out to your family at this difficult time. John Kanaley
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Dick Clarke - Baldwinsville posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
To the Neufangs:
Bill was a terrific teacher, outstanding coach and a great friend to Baldwinsville. I know that I speak for my Class of '64 friends when I say how much respect we had some Bill. I will miss his friendship and the chats we had. My condolences to all.
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Carmel Zollo - Canandaigua, N>Y> posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Mary and Family, My thoughts and prayers
are with all of you at this difficult time. Carmel Zollo
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David & Linda Oertel - Florida posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
We'll never forget the good times with Bill and Mary as we gathered at Daygers or took walks through the Village. Our thoughts are with you, Mary.
K
Kelley Williams - Baldwinsville, NY posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
My condolences to the family.
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C Scott Florczyk - Baldwinsville posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Karl,Tracey & Family,
I'm sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
D
Dan D'Agostino - Liverpool, NY posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
I'm so sorry to hear about Bill. I coached JV Football at Liverpool and enjoyed my time across the field from Bill. He was a great coach and a great person. Most recently I would see Bill at games that involved our grandchildren. My prayers are with you at this time. God Bless
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Jim Molloy - St. Louis, MO posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
To The Neufang Family,
Words cannot express what Mr. Neufang meant to all those that he taught, coached and encouraged. He was sincere and passionate about everything he did and I will remember him for the dedication and "positive approach" he provided in all situations. A motivator, a wonderful teacher and a true model of a great citizen - my heartfelt sympathy to all of you during your time of grief.
Jim Molloy "64 Alum"
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Janet E. Pickard-Smith - DeRuyter,NY posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Dear Neufang Family, My sincere sympathy to all of you..I am a Baldwinsville alum and had Mr Neufang as a teacher.as well my older brother had as his coach..and my Mom worked as head of BVille cafeteria and knew him also..many a fond memory..May God's Blessings be with you all..
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Bob Harris - Ohio posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
our prayers are with the Neufang family
93 Downer Street | Baldwinsville, New York 13027 | Tel (315) 635-3031 | Fax (315) 635-7086