Neil Haase

Neil Witcombe Haase, age 88, of Webster, South Dakota, passed away on September 18, 2025. Born to Fred and Hazel (Peterson) Haase on June 15, 1937, at Peabody Hospital in Webster, South Dakota. Neil grew up in Webster and graduated from Webster High School in 1955. Following graduation, he joined the United States Air Force in 1956 and completed pilot training in 1958. Neil was very proud to serve his country and loved sharing his stories about his time in the cockpit. After retiring as a Major in the USAF, he would continue to serve as a member of the Air National Guard out of West Hampton Beach, New York. His love for flying started at an early age and would become his career. Neil accepted a job as a commercial airline pilot with American Airlines in 1967 and remained with the company for his entire career, becoming a Captain before retiring in 1997.

Neil married Susan Haase (Kelly) at St. John’s Lutheran Church in downtown Webster in May 1997, and they built a wonderful life together on their farm just south of town. Neil was an avid sportsman who enjoyed spending time hunting and fishing whenever possible.

He is survived by his son, Hans (Alba) Haase of Sioux Falls, SD; daughters, Gretchen Haase (Jeff Musheno) of Las Vegas, NV, and Cheryl D’Amico of Port Jefferson Station, NY. Stepdaughter Kathy Kelly Yunick (Steve) and stepson Kevin Kelly (Marlena) of Daytona Beach, FL. Grandchildren: Emma, Declan, Nicholas, Taylor, Kaylin, Erin, Grace, and Conner. Sister-in-law Judy (Sichmeller) Haase of Milbank, SD; nephews: Kent (Lisa) Haase, Rick (Christine) Haase, Kraig (Cindy) Haase, and many great-nieces and nephews. Neil was preceded in death by his wife, Susan (Kelly) Haase, brother Arlo Haase, and his parents, Fred and Hazel Haase.