Neil Cornelius Sr., 66, passed away Friday, Aug. 10, 2018. It is with tremendous sorrow and humility that his wife, Lorraine Cornelius, and son, Neil Cornelius Jr., share the news of his departure to the spirit world.
Neil had just recently retired and relocated to Tucson, Arizona. Neil’s professional career started with IBM, where he spent 25 years. Ultimately, Neil transitioned from his career with IBM to work for the Oneida Nation, where he would be able to have a lasting impact on his people. Neil would end up serving Oneida in gaming for many good years, as well as four other tribal nations.
Neil was a man of excellence who was driven by win/win, communication, innovation, teamwork, principles, but most of all unconditional love. Many who know him knew of his proactive way and the voicemail greeting he kept, in which he stated, “Make it a good day!”
In 1980, Neil and Lorraine first met in Denver, Colorado. Neil and Lorraine were married in Florida, where Neil Jr. would enter their lives. Neil and Lorraine honeymooned in San Francisco and returned many times over the years. Along their journey together, they were able to experience many beautiful places around the country. Some of Neil Jr.’s lasting memories will be the recent national parks adventure, lobster diving in the Keys, and skiing in the Rockies.
Neil was a devoted sports and Packers fan. Neil was very proud of the Oneida Nation Gate at Lambeau Field. Neil and Lorraine loved to support each other’s dreams including attending three Packers Super Bowls. Neil and Lorraine shared 36 wonderful years of marriage together and many wonderful memories with their families from Wisconsin to Arizona.
Accordingly, on Sept. 27 at 4 p.m., a mass service will be held at the Holy Apostle’s Episcopal Church (Stone Church) in Oneida, Wisconsin. Vicar Rodger Patience will officiate. Before and after the service, Neil’s family will be at the Oneida parish hall celebrating his legacy. All of the people who crossed paths with Neil and would like to stop by the hall are welcome. We are excited and look forward to a story of him and time with you.
Neil is survived by his wife, Lorraine; son, Neil Jr.; brothers and sisters, Dr. Carol Cornelius, Jody (Alita) Cornelius, Norma (Jim) Flauger, Reva (Bob) Fuhrman, Lowell Cornelius and Carmen Cornelius; many special nieces and nephews, including Venessa Cardish and family, Debi Mora and girls, Melisa Lopez, Cathy Bachhuber, Steve Montoya and Tonya Dutch.
Neil was preceded in death by his parents, Lois and Norrin Cornelius; brother, Fred Cornelius; and sister, Dotty Cornelius.
In lieu of flowers please consider a small donation to a scholarship in Neil’s memory. This scholarship will benefit a higher education for an Oneida tribal member.
