Neal Briese

Neal Briese, age 60 of Watkins, MN, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 16, 2023.

A Celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 5, 2023 at the Watkins Village Hall from 11:00am-2:00pm. Words of Comfort and Remembrances at approximately 1:00pm.  Neal’s family encourages attendees to wear MN Vikings apparel, as Neal was a true Vikings fan.

Neal was born on March 24, 1963 in Bismarck, North Dakota to Joe and Doris Briese.

He had a love of fishing, hunting, bowling, carbels, cribbage and spending time with his family and friends.

Neal graduated from Eden Valley Watkins High School in 1983.  Neal and his wife, Leigh, lived for many years in Waite Park, MN where he worked for Kohls Department Store.  He loved seeing family and friends at the store and would make sure to stop them and visit for a bit.  They moved to Watkins several years ago to be closer to family.

Anyone who knew Neal, knew that they would most likely be greeted with “Happy Birthday!” and his parting words were often “See you tomorrow!” whether he was going to see you or not!

Neal is survived by brothers Dave of Eden Valley, MN; Mike (Jone) of Otsego, MN; sister Reneen Babbitt (Jeff) of Watkins, MN; Leigh Briese of Buffalo, MN; stepdaughter Katrina and granddaughter Naomi Zierden of Parish, FL; stepdaughter Erin Korte (Josh) of Sartell, MN; and many nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews.

Neal was preceded in death by parents Joe and Doris Briese, sister Wendy Briese, and nephew Ryan Briese.