F. Neal Sever, 86, passed away August 27, 2012 in Virginia Beach, VA following complications from a heart attack. He was a man among men, loved and respected by all who knew him.
A veteran of World War II, Neal served in the Submarine Service of the United States Navy on the USS BARB (SS-220), commanded by Medal of Honor recipient CDR Gene Fluckey. He was particularly proud of the crew with whom he served. Neal was the signalman and last surviving member of the eight-man team from the Barb that went ashore in Japan and blew up a train- the only ground combat operation on mainland Japanese soil by American servicemen during World War II. This team format remains the standard for SEAL Teams today. For his bravery, he was awarded the Silver Star.
Born in Sioux City, Iowa, he was the only child of Mary (Gormally) and William Sever and was orphaned at the age of 12. Self-driven, he went on to graduate Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Dakota and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He attended George Washington University Law School in Washington, DC and graduated from the University of South Dakota Law School. As a professional he rose in the corporate ranks of Westinghouse Electric Corp. to associate general counsel. A dedicated athlete, he was an avid golfer and runner. In two decades of running he completed over 20 marathons including the likes of Boston and New York.
Still, his finest hours were as a husband, father and grand- father. Beloved by his family, he was a source of wisdom and humor. He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Marian, a son, Mark Sever and his wife Liz, daughter Mary Sever, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Memorial services were held at Zion Lutheran Church (Brent- wood) 4301 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236 on September 1st. Burial will be at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery, Washington, D. C. Memorials may be sent to Zion Lutheran Church Memorial Fund. Condolences may be sent to the family at 533 Wedge Dr. Virginia Beach, VA 23462.
