Geneva athlete remembered for smile, laugh
John McNeil was a big guy, standing 6 feet 5 inches and weighing in at 265 pounds.
But what most people remember about the Geneva teen is his booming laugh and nearly omnipresent great big smile.
About 800 people gathered Monday afternoon to say goodbye to the Geneva High School senior at a funeral at First Baptist Church of Geneva, West Campus.
The 18-year-old died last Thursday of an unknown illness at Delnor-Community Hospital.
Speakers recalled McNeil, who played left tackle for the varsity football team, as a humorous and caring youth who did not use his size to intimidate people, other than on the football field.
Friend Anthony Miller, who played on the offensive line with McNeil, recalled how McNeil drove him to and from school recently, without being asked, after Miller wrecked his own car. Miller, admitting he could be a little less than humble, made the mourners laugh when he said McNeil kept him in check, whether pointing out Miller's spelling errors on a school project "or criticizing my bad grammar. (Pause) I hated when he did that.
"He was someone who would laugh with you. and never hesitate to laugh at you," Miller said, drawing laughs again.
"How could you forget that loud laugh of his? See ya later, man. Thanks for the ride."
Varsity football coach Rob Wicinski recalled how he encouraged McNeil to work hard in the weight room to improve for football, telling him to get "McNasty" with the weights. The nickname caught on.
"But football did not define John," Wicinski said, saying that if he had a son, he would want him to be like McNeil.
In the lobby, his football jersey was displayed between tables bearing photos, commendations and posters chronicling his life and friendships. A large banner signed by students expressed sympathy to the family. After the service, one football player, wearing a Geneva jersey, stood silent, holding his cap over his heart as John's teammates accompanied his casket out of the church to the hearse.
At 5 p.m. Monday, friends and family were invited to gather at Geneva High School for a "team dinner," featuring McNeil's favorite foods. It was sponsored by the Geneva Football Parents.
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