Deacon Neuser was ordained on June 24, 2007 by then-Bishop George J. Lucas at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Deacon Neuser was among the 18 men who made up the inaugural permanent deacon class to be ordained in the Springfield diocese. He was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Churchin Quicy where he ministered and a member of the Knights of Columbus. In addition, Deacon Neuser participated in the adoration chapel, Cursillo, Residents Encounter Christ and served as a eucharistic minister at Blessing Hospital for many years.

Deacon Neuser retired from Federal Express after 22 years with the company. In addition, he also served with the Neillsville, Wis., police department.

In addition to his wife, Deacon Neuser is survived by his mother, Inez Neuser of Quincy; children, Luke Neuser of Quincy, Gina (Patrick) Holt of St. Louis, Laura (Joseph) Zanger of Liberty and Jesse (Caitlin) Neuser of Barry; five grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews,great- nieces and great-nephews.

Bishop Thomas John Paprocki celebrated the Mass of Christian Burial July 5 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Quincy with several priests and deacons of the diocese present. Burial was in Calvary Cemetery, with military honors conducted by American Legion Post #37 and the Illinois National Guard Honors Detail.

Duker & Haugh Funeral Home, Quincy, was in charge of arrangements.