Resolution 81:04: Memorial Resolution for Elder Neil VanCleve

Neil Edwin VanCleve passed away on Saturday, December 17, 2016 at The Mount Pleasant Rehabilitation Facility in Monroe Ohio.

In addition to being married to the love of his life, Linda, Neil left behind three adult children: Rodney VanCleve of Monroe, Philip VanCleve of Mason, as well as one daughter Renee Metz of Southgate, Kentucky.

Neil was a true churchman and a model for others to follow.  He was a faithful member of the Grace Bible Presbyterian Church, Sharonville, Ohio, for 45 years. From the moment of his conversion at one of Grace’s evangelistic Bible studies until the day of his passing, Neil remained committed to the local church, serving for many years in a variety of capacities.  Neil was a true model of Christian faithfulness and a steadfast friend in the Lord to all who knew him.  The impact of Neil’s ministry was wide and varied.  Neil drove a church bus, was active in sports ministry and camp and was frequently involved in the evangelistic activities of his church.  He also faithfully served Grace Bible Presbyterian as an elder for many years, representing the church at the presbytery and synod level.

Elder VanCleve was also a great lover of music.  He was a member of the choir, continuing to lead the men’s chorus until just months prior to his death.   Neil was a man who truly treasured the Lord Jesus Christ.  As a servant of the Lord, he was heavenly minded and therefore did much earthly good for the glory of Christ his King.

Surely Neil VanCleve’s testimony can be given in the last stanza of one of his favorite hymns The Wonderful Grace of Jesus:

Wonderful grace of Jesus,
Reaching the most defiled,
By its transforming power,
Making him God’s dear child,
Purchasing peace and Heaven,
For all eternity—
For the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me.

“And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. ”  Revelation 14:13