Neumann, Harry Charles

Harry Charles Neumann, 72, of Christiansburg, Va., died Saturday, June 6, 2009, at Kroontje Health Care Center. He was born in Chicago, Ill., on June 13, 1936, to the late Laurel Charles and Pauline Rusin Neumann. Harry worked as a mechanical engineer and served as a department chief for AT&T, retiring in 1992, and served in the United States Army and Active Reserves from 1959 to 1966. Through his many years of service on the Montgomery County and Blacksburg planning commissions, he was very involved in helping to preserve the natural beauty of southwest Virginia. Harry also served his community as a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Also a member of the Sierra Club and Friends of the Appalachian Trail, he enjoyed hiking, camping, bird watching, reading, and nature photography. He is survived by his wife, Donna Neumann, of Christiansburg; daughter and son-in-law, Sara and Jim Giannecchini, of Christiansburg; three sons and daughters-inlaw, Mark and Kathy Neumann, of Tinley Park, Ill., Jeffrey and Mary Neumann, of Chicago, Ill., and Robert and Jill Neumann, of Brainerd, Minn.; sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Al Wienke, of Mokena, Ill.; brother and sister-in-law, Raymond and Jan Neumann, of Homewood, Ill.; 12 grandchildren; two greatgrandchildren; numerous nephews and nieces; and many special friends. Thank you to The Cove and Good Samaritan Hospice. The family is planning a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Harry’s name to the Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 355 Independence Blvd., Christiansburg, Va., 24073 or to Fieldstone United Methodist Church, 3385 N. Franklin St., Christiansburg, Va.