Company
In Memoriam
Howard Neustadt (1918 - 2007)
Howard Neustadt passed away on June 3, 2007, at the age of 88. He devoted his life to directing Neuco, Inc. into what it has become today, the leading master distributor of HVACR controls. Proudly applying a strong-minded work ethic and providing service levels beyond expectations, that's how Howard carried forth with what has been referred to as 'the Neustadt Tradition' which began 117 years ago on the Westside of Chicago by his father, John Neustadt, at the company's humble beginnings known as Neustadt Coal, Hay & Grain. Howard will be remembered not only as an undeniable leader in this industry but also as a remarkable family man. He is survived by 8 children, 14 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gertrude, and his nephew, Joseph Neustadt, a former Neuco owner. Neuco, Inc. will prevail under the current ownership of two of Howard's sons, Paul and Jon Neustadt.
Joe Neustadt (1956 - 2004)
It is with great sadness that we must announce that Joe Neustadt, Co-Owner and Vice President of Neuco, passed away on June 24, 2004 while sleeping due to heart failure. He fought a long 22 year battle with Marfan Syndrome - a multi-system genetic disorder of the connective tissue. He was 48 years old. During his 25+ years at Neuco, many of our manufacturers and customers have had the pleasure of meeting and working with him. He was a truly amazing spirit to be around. All of us will miss him tremendously, and we wish his family strength during this difficult time.
A heartfelt thank you for all of the flowers, cards, gifts and kind words that were sent to Neuco for Joe's family. All of us appreciate and are overwhelmed by the obvious effect Joe had on so many people.
Mike Grund, Sr. (1950 - 2005)
Sadly we must report the sudden passing of Mike Grund, Sr., Neuco's Outside Sales Coordinator. Mike suffered a massive heart attack and passed away on July 3, 2005. He was 54 years old. During his 13-year career at Neuco and nearly 30 years in the HVACR industry, Mike was instrumental in growing our Chicagoland customer base, developing partnerships with major manufacturers, and coordinating continuing educational classes for customers. Mike had a tremendous love of family, a gift for making people feel at ease, and always had a great story to tell. Mike will be missed dearly by all of us, and we wish his family strength during this difficult time.
Brian Williams (1985 - 2003)
Brian Williams was killed in a car accident on November 19, 2003. Brian was 18. He worked at Neuco in the IT Department and also the warehouse while attending a local college. His father, Craig, has been an inside salesman with Neuco for 27 years. His sister, who also attended a local college, worked here with us at Neuco as an afternoon receptionist. Brian will be missed dearly by all of us in his Neuco family.
Marie Ferguson (1942 - 2020)
It is with great sadness we share that Marie Ferguson passed away on April 2nd, 2020 due to complications from COVID-19. After nearly 40 years at Neuco, Marie retired in 2018. She played a role in many departments from the beginning of her career. She was one of the few employees in the early years of Neuco, so as most, she played many different roles as needed. She eventually settled in the customer service department. Marie was known as the "Mom" at the office as she helped and cared for everyone around her. Even after retirement, she attended Neuco's Annual Family BBQ's and Christmas parties along with other company events. Her nephew, Jimmy Pease, is a current member of the Neuco inside sales team. Marie played an integral part in Neuco's history and will be missed by many.