Michael David Neau

Michael David Neau

On Sunday, June 9, 1985, Michael David Neau, age 36, was born in Niceville, FL, to Michael and Deborah Neau. Michael married Mechelle (Kendrick) Neau on March 16, 2019. Michael finished his Associate's degree while going through the Law Enforcement Academy at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville, FL, and swore into the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office (OCSO). Before his police career, Michael served in the U.S. Air Force. While serving, Michael was stationed in Korea and formed a love for the food that continued through his life. Michael is a man of God first. He touched so many lives through his church family and beyond. Michael led his children to Christ and strives daily to be the example of a Christian, selfless, loving, and forgiving. Michael is a family man; he puts his wife and children above everything. He has a bond with his siblings and parents that can never be broken. Michael's priority is making memories that money can't buy: woodworking, house projects, video games, new adventures with the family such as camping, hiking, and going to new places.

Michael was raised in the church and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior at the age of 13. Eventually, Michael found his way to Beachside Community Church when he realized he and his family needed an active relationship with Christ. Shortly after joining the Church, Michael requested to serve in Guest Services. He drives the golf carts to escort church members to the building from the parking showering all passengers with love and acceptance. He never met a stranger or an enemy. Michael has a fantastic way of lightening any situation, making people laugh regardless of the circumstance. He is always there to wrap anyone in a big bear hug; nothing can ruffle his feathers. He exudes sincerity to every person he encounters with his larger-than-life presence, genuine smile, and infectious laughter.

Michael's daddy side is a sight to see. He is so understanding of others and able to speak in a way that can diffuse any situation. This understanding enables him to guide his kids through every phase of life, helping them understand and grow in love. Michael's love languages are Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch; he is the best at speaking all of them. Michael surprises his wife with fresh roses once or twice per week, even though she can't keep any plant alive. Instead, she dries and keeps the flowers he brings home. He is so consistent with his love that anytime the kids go out without Daddy, they say, "Don't forget, we have to get Daddy flowers!" The flowers always put the biggest smile on his face when the kids present them together; he and the kids beaming with pride.

Michael also runs a small zoo in his home and constantly threatens to have his wife trespassed from the pet stores if she brought another living thing home. However, that never happened, and she and the kids continue to add to their family. Michael is that typical dad that does not want any animals, but once it is brought home, they are his babies too. He taught so many people that love, understanding, and forgiveness come first, above all else.

Michael is survived by his wife, Mechelle Neau; his children; Damien Neau (14), Ryan Neau (12), Lilia Neau (10), Easton Neau (8), Layla Neau (7), and Adalynn Neau (4); his parents, Michael and Deborah Neau; his sister Rochelle Neau; and brothers Christopher Neau, Matthew Neau, and Joseph Neau. 

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, September 13, 2021 beginning at 4:00 p.m., Beachside Community Church, 200 Racetrack Road NW, Fort Walton Beach, 32547. A visitation will begin an hour prior.  The service is open to the public, anyone is welcome to show their respects for the family and honor Michael.  A reception will be held at Beachside Church after the services. 

Graveside Services will take place, Tuesday, September 14, 2021 at 10:00 a.m., Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola.  The graveside service will only be open to immediate family and first responders.  We appreciate your respecting the family’s wishes. 

Officiants for the service will be OCSO Chaplain Tim Sheldon and Beachside Community Church’s Shaun Ellis and Eric Miracle. 

Pallbearers will be Michael Neau, Christopher Neau, Matthew Neau, Joseph Neau, Kyle Lisenbee and Vince Adams.