Mearl Joseph Neumann, age 98, went peacefully into God's heavenly embrace on April 22, 2026, in Fort Wayne, IN. He was born in Fort Wayne to the late Herman Karl and Mary Edith (Martin) Neumann.

Mearl proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He earned the Purple Heart medal for his bravery and service. After he returned home, he married the love of his life, Jeanne Ankenbruck, on October 11, 1952. She had prayed Mearl would be shot in the butt and sent home. Her prayers were answered, and they shared 61 blessed years together. Mearl worked as a bindery foreman at the Lincoln Printing Corporation for most of his life. He was a faithful member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church.

Mearl was a devoted husband and father. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, and family vacations. Upon retirement, he and Jeanne traveled the country in their R.V.

Mearl is survived by his daughters, Dianne M. (Greg) Leatherman of Fort Wayne, Elaine M. Tippmann of Loveland, CO, and Andrea L. (Tracy) McGhee of Aliso Viejo, CA; and son, Joseph M. (Bonnie) Neumann of Fort Wayne; 11 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-granddaughter; and sister, Donna Bell Wright.

Mearl was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanne Neumann; son-in-law, Martin Tippmann; and siblings, Betty Moldthan, Mary Ann Foote, Kathleen Janke, Eugene Neumann, Emmagene Bercot, Virginia Maloley, Mearl's twin sister, Pearl Peterson, and Donna Jean Meyers.

Mass of Christian Burial is 11:00 am, Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1502 E. Wallen Road, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation also 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm on Monday, May 4, 2026, at Fairhaven Funeral Home, 6557 N. Clinton Street. Burial at Lindenwood Cemetery with military honors. Memorials may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church (Masses) or Heartland Hospice. To sign the online guestbook, go to www.fairhavenfortwayne.com