Neil F. McCormick, age 100, of Winnemucca, Nevada died March 10, 2017 at his home surrounded by his family. Born August 18, 1916, in Farina, Illinois, he was the son of the late Rex Sr. and Myrtle McCormick.
After graduating from high school he joined the CCC as many young men did during that time. He began his career with USG in 1944 in Southard, Oklahoma. He married Irene Pfaff after a six week courtship; they were together for 35 years until her passing in 1981. The following year, their first daughter Patty was born, ten years later their second daughter Gayle was born.
Neil and his family transferred to Utah with USG thus starting his journey out west. After a short time in Utah an opportunity arose in a very small town in NW Nevada – Empire. Neil held various positions with USG throughout his 37 year career. He was an entrepreneur. He started Empire Appliance repairing everything from washers to TV’s, also sold insurance for 20 years, a man of many talents that could build or fix just about anything. He was instrumental in developing and helping build the Burning Sands Golf course in Empire and continued to play golf for many years after retiring. Neil was a talented artist, having a showing of his work in 2005 at age 89.
Neil enjoyed spending time with his family and friends: bird hunting, playing bridge, huge family/friend gatherings or taking the 7 mile jaunt to Gerlach to socialize.
He leaves behind his loving daughter Patty, who cared for him for many years, daughter Gayle (Andy) Fitzwater, grandsons Martin Joe Larraneta Jr., Joshua and Benjamin Ritz, brother Rex Jr. (Janie) McCormick.
The family wishes to express our gratitude to the special people that provided care and support; Alice (who was there from day one), Laura (Jack), Yonne, Angie our angel and Reed (the bookie).
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
