Obituary of Christopher Fowler Neiley

CHRISTOPHER FOWLER NEILEY, 56, of Rome, passed away peacefully Saturday, Dec. 1 2012 surrounded by loved ones after a short and intense battle with cancer. Chris was born August 17, 1956, to Chick and Jean Neiley. He grew up in Endicott, New York, Home of the Square Deal, a philosophy Chris embraced. He was a graduate of Union Endwell High School and Penn State University. Christopher was a civil engineer for the State of New York for 30 years, building many area roads and bridges. He took great pride in his work and was a highly respected manager. Chris saw the best in every person and strove to help them achieve their full potential. Chris was a wonderful husband, son, brother, father, neighbor and friend. He was an avid runner, woodworker, skier, hunter, fisherman, camper, hiker, boat builder and coach. He excelled at everything he put his mind to and was willing to share his talents with those seeking to learn. Chris's favorite day of the year is Boilermaker Sunday, running and celebrating with his closest friends. He will live on through his beloved wife Nancy Olson Neiley, his children Nicholas (Francesca Equale) and Katrina, his dog and running partner Ranger, his mother Jean Neiley, his siblings Roger Neiley (Ingrid Niehaus) and Andrea Neiley (Mike Hagan), his nephew Thomas Olson (Patricia Olson), his nieces Heather Olson and Eva Hagan, and many beloved friends. Calling hours for Chris will be Thursday, December 6th, from 4 - 8 PM at Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, in Rome, New York. There will be a Memorial service on Friday December 7th at 5:30 PM at the First Presbyterian Church of Westernville. All are welcome. Memorial contributions can be made to Cancer Treatment Centers of America at the Eastern Medical Center, the First Presbyterian Church of Westernville (PO Box 190, Westernville, NY 13486) or the Town of Western Library.