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Neal R. Bierbaum

6/23/1952 - 12/19/2024

Text:

Obituary For Neal R. Bierbaum

Neal Robert Bierbaum passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024. Active and busy until the end, his loss was unexpected. He was born in Milwaukee, WI on June 23, 1952 to Joy Gladys (Meyers) and Robert Edward Bierbaum. He spent his early years in Kingsport, TN and Columbia, SC, graduating from A.C. Flora High School in Columbia in 1970.

From an early age, Neal loved planes and rockets and dreamed of flying. Upon graduation from high school, he received an appointment to attend the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. There he developed a love for computers, bicycle touring, and the mountains. He graduated from the Academy in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science degree with a dual major in electrical engineering and computer science.

He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the US Air Force in June of 1974. He received pilot training at Reese Air Force Base (Lubbock, TX), followed by training at Little Rock Air Force Base to fly the C-130 Hercules tactical transport turbo-prop aircraft. His dream of flying was fully realized when he began his career as a US Air Force pilot at Pope Air Force Base (Fayetteville, NC) in 1976. He served in Europe briefly in late 1976, which included one of his most treasured flights delivering humanitarian aid to earthquake victims in Turkey – his was the first C-130 to land in support of this mission.

In late 1977, he moved to Hochheim, Germany and was based at Rhein-Main Air Base. He piloted the C-130 throughout Europe and the Middle East. He returned to the US briefly in 1978 for Squadron Officer School at Maxwell Air Force Base (Montgomery, AL) and aircraft upgrade training at Little Rock Air Force Base before returning to Rhein-Main.

In 1980, he headed to Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio for training to become an instructor pilot for the T-38 supersonic trainer. He then settled in Mesa, AZ serving at Williams Air Force Base. His first flight as an instructor pilot was in June of 1980. He was at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas in mid-1981 for a special assignment and then returned to his role as instructor pilot at Williams. While living in Mesa, he soloed as a glider pilot. During one of the most memorable flights of his life, he rode the thermals silently in formation with a group of soaring birds.

Neal’s last flight as an instructor pilot was in August of 1982. His beloved career as a pilot ended when he was medically grounded. He then had a chance to hone his love of programming, writing flight scheduling software at Williams.

After his nine years of service in the US Air Force, Neal decided to return to graduate school to begin a new career in high tech. He received an honorable discharge from the US Air Force in June of 1983 with the rank of Captain. To mark his transition to civilian life, he bicycled across the US during the summer of 1983 with a group organized by Bikecentennial.

Neal moved to Palo Alto, CA in September of 1983 to begin graduate studies at Stanford University in the Electrical Engineering Department. At the welcome party for the incoming EE graduate students, he met Rene Robertson, fresh from receiving her BSEE degree from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. Respect turned to friendship and then to love, and they got married on August 18, 1984 at University Lutheran Church in Palo Alto, CA. They moved to Fremont, CA, their home for most of the next 40 years. Around this time, they began their tradition of always wearing matching shirts.

Neal received a Master of Science degree in electrical engineering in 1984 and an Engineers Degree in electrical engineering in 1986, both from Stanford. His research focus was computer networking. Starting in 1986, he enjoyed a varied career in computer networking firmware, software, modeling, and research, working at General Electric, Vitalink, Make Systems, Hybrid, and Sandia National Laboratories. In the summer of 1999, he and Rene fulfilled their dream of bicycling across the US on their tandem bicycle. They celebrated Rene’s retirement in 2013 with another tandem bike ride across the US.

In 2006, he and Rene put their careers on hold to join the US Peace Corps. They served as Peace Corps Volunteers at Compostela National High School in the Philippines through 2008. Neal developed a low-cost, low-maintenance computer system tailored for high school use. This period was the highlight of his life. Upon returning to the US, he continued software development in support of schools in the Philippines. His volunteer work expanded to Tanzania in 2010. In 2012, he and Rene co-founded Reneal International Education Outreach, a US non-profit with a mission of installing computer labs in public high schools in developing countries.

Since the beginning of Reneal, Neal has worked tirelessly on software development and updates to improve educational opportunities for students and teachers. Reneal’s main focus from 2020 to the present has been working with Reneal Team Tanzania to expand the number of computer labs installed in schools in Tanzania.

He is loved and respected by friends around the world for his giant heart, beautiful smile, integrity, generosity, technical competence, and dedication. In his free time, he loved following progress in space exploration, travelling, flying his drones, bike touring and backpacking, reading, bad puns, listening to music, snorkeling among coral reefs, and being with family and friends. Neal was always true to himself and had the courage to follow his dreams throughout his life.

Neal is survived by his wife of 40 years, Rene Bierbaum of Fremont, CA, his sister Pamela
Dixon (John Fry) of Altamonte Springs, FL, his brother Clark (Ruth) of Charlotte, NC, nieces Erica Bolton and Claire O’Connor, nephews Brent Dixon, Craig Dixon, Jack Bonnell, and Reece Robertson, and 6 grand-nephews and grand-nieces.

Neal was a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Fremont, CA and an enthusiastic volunteer for Fremont’s Safe Parking program. He was able to fulfill his last wish of being an organ donor to help others. A celebration of life for Neal followed by a lunch will be held on Saturday, February 1st at 11 am at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 38801 Blacow Rd, Fremont, CA 94536.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice.

Services

1 Feb

Celebration of Life

11:00 AM

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 38801 Blacow Road Fremont, CA 94536 Get Directions »
by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

  • 02/01/2025

    Jeanette J

    A truly amazing man taken too soon... such a great loss to this world. My heart goes out to Rene and Neal's friends and family.... Jeanette Johnstone, Teacher in a Box project, Brisbane, Australia

  • 01/12/2025

    Godbless

    I was deeply saddened to hear of your recent loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time. Godbless from Arusha

  • 01/09/2025

    FARAJA DAVID MRAMBA

  • 01/03/2025

    peter kaaya

    I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Neal. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time. His loss is felt not only by those who knew him personally but also by the countless individuals and communities who benefited from his generosity and vision. Mr. Neal's commitment to supporting education, particularly in Tanzania, is a legacy that will continue to inspire. His initiative to provide free computer supplies to secondary schools has made a transformative impact on the lives of students and teachers alike, bridging the digital divide and empowering future generations. Through his unwavering support, many young minds were given the tools to unlock their potential and pursue their dreams. As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the profound difference he made in the world. His kindness, dedication, and vision have left an indelible mark on education in Tanzania and beyond. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who were touched by his extraordinary kindness and commitment. With deepest sympathy, peter kaaya head of ICT Department at ARUSHA TECHNICAL COLLEGE

  • 01/02/2025

    Miage Likinjie Laizer

    Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. LIKINJIE,M. ENYOITO SS ARUSHA DC - TZ

  • 01/02/2025

    Myrna P. Soco

    Rest in peace sir Neal. Thank you for sharing your expertise, kindness and generosity with us together with your loving wife, ma'am Rene. Your greatness and generous works will always be remembered. Thank you and may your soul rest peacefully...

  • 01/02/2025

    Antonio Echavez Jr.

    Our deepest condolences to Ma'am Rene. Sir Neal was like a father to me, I even called him my American Father... So many memories with him working on Reneal Computers they have put up in our school. Sir Rene you are a legend in providing computer education here in Cebu Phils. Thank God for your life. Surely you are enjoying God's presence there in Heaven. We will miss you. We love you from Echavez Family of Cebu.

  • 01/02/2025

    Joan Cotta

    Rene I am so sad to read of Neil's passing. Neil and you have left a legacy, students and teachers in two countries who can now, having hands on access to computers and the internet and greater world, touch the sky and beyond because of you two. I was happy to give what little help I couple to Reneal and I followed Neils's lab and your students as you worked around the world. I remember Neil describing how to cope with being a tall person in the Philippines! My partner Don asked me, "What difference did I make volunteering in Africa, for rural medical missions?" I told him that the students he supported through medical school training, who returned to work in their communities were his children, and his legacy. My peace to Neil, and to you. Joan Cotta, retired in Sequim WA

  • 01/02/2025

    Marcia Clark

    Rene, please accept our sincere sympathy for the loss of your dear husband Neal. Sending you our love and heartfelt condolences at this difficult time. Ron and Marcia

  • 01/02/2025

    Travis Deyle

    Tragic. I'm sure we'll all be reunited one day, but your absence will be felt. Your life truly was inspiring, and you made the world a better place. We'll miss you.

  • 01/02/2025

    Rey Paolo Buot

    Truly a remarkable human being. I have witnessed his dedication to help in Cebu Philippines. Thank you Neal. Rest in peace.

  • 01/02/2025

    Ernestina Sabonsolin

    I was deeply saddened to hear of your recent loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time. My thoughts are with you and your team as you navigate through such a challenging moment.

  • 01/02/2025

    Shudi Adiel

    Neal,I'll remember you as a selfless, hardworking and inspirational person. People like you makes easy to believe in humanity

  • 01/02/2025

    Bethany

    Neal, you are and will be truly missed. Rene, Tom and I are deeply saddened over your loss and wish to offer our most sincere condolences.

  • 01/02/2025

    Sheila Quinanola

    I am so sorry to hear about Neal's passing. There are no words for such a sad time. My deepest condolences. 💐

  • 01/02/2025

    John and Deanna

    We are so sorry and saddened by the unexpected passing of Neal. Rene - please know we are praying for you and your family during this very difficult time.

  • 01/01/2025

    Lulu mussa

    May your soul rest in peace Neal,You may not be here anymore, but you're still in our hearts

  • 01/01/2025

    LUSUBILO SICHONE

  • 01/01/2025

    josephat kasile

  • 01/01/2025

    josephat kasile

    I'm so sorry, RIEP

  • 01/01/2025

    Dr. Harrison Chonjo

    For 11 years we used to meet consecutively when you land in Arusha. Mukulat Secondary Computer Lab being the first Lab Opened in Tanzania this gave me a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious moment of being friends and family. I used to witnessed to you how the first graduates generation who benefited from the computer classes enjoyed when they joined University level and others went far on using the knowledge to self employment I used to see your broad smile 😁 Neal and Renee. Even if I wear Shakespeare's shoes I can't express my gratitude to you Neal and Renee beyond the reasonable doubt. To "Renee" I know you've got big lost. I used to learned for 11 years how you call each other "Dear" in each sentence of your conversation, it was fact speaking for it's self (Res ipsa loquitur) how two of you have connections. Very Sorry for your Loss. 😢 As Neal's life disappeared in HARDWARE but still exist in SOFTWARE, his Spirit will always run in our Servers as Super Users and in all Client Computers for each students, we will always celebrate his life in each CLICK which brings smiles, hope and bright future for our students and communities. Rest In Eternal Peace Neal Bierbaum Dr. Harrison Chonjo Mukulat Secondary School

  • 01/01/2025

    Menard M. Lupenza DSEO Arusha DC

    "Please accept my deepest condolences to you over the loss of the Grsat Neal. I offer you my heartfelt support and friendship in this difficult time". I will always remember in my prayers

  • 01/01/2025

    Zulfikar Khanbhai

    This world isn't the same without you, but I am grateful for the time we had together. Neal once called me a 'great friend. ' I miss him dearly and am honored to have called them my best friend. A friend taken from life too soon is nothing but tragedy.

  • 01/01/2025

    Justine R. Swai

    It's very sad news that Neal is no longer with us...!!! He was a true father who always dedicated his time and resources in supporting others especially in information and technology arena. Most of young girls and boys in secondary schools in Arusha have acquired a privileged to use computers in teaching and learning process just because of this man of the people Neal. You have gone but your legacy will remain with us forever. Rest in Peace our friend Neal. justineswai@gmail.com

  • 01/01/2025

    Morice Albert Misanga

    I'm saddened to hear the passing of Neal Bierbaum, a person who touched a lot of children's life especially in education through the support of ICT devices. Secondary Education department in Meru District Council are among of the beneficiaries of the support and we thank the late Mr Neal Bierbaum and Reneal International Education Outreach for adding value to our education, we will live with this memory in our schools for years to come. May His soul Rest in Peace, AMEN Morice Albert Misanga

  • 01/01/2025

    Diana Gadson

    May Neil's Soul rest in eternal peace. Amen.

  • 01/01/2025

    Frank E. Kimaro

    *To: Mrs. Rene Bierbaum* Reneal International Education Outreach Dear Mrs. Rene Bierbaum, It is with deep sorrow that we received the news of the passing of your beloved husband, Mr. Neal Bierbaum, on December 19, 2024 from Mr David Nyangaka (Country Coordinator). On behalf of the people of Arusha particularly the young students from our public Schools, I extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this incredible difficult time. The impact of his work through Reneal International Education Outreach will continue to shape the lives of Majority of Tanzanian students for years to come. Neal's legacy of selflessness, dedication, and passion for education will remain an inspiration to us all. Please believe that the people of Arusha and all the Regions that Neal touched will forever honor his memory. We are committed to continuing his mission and ensuring that his dream of empowering young people through technology lives on. Mrs. Rene, i trust on the strength and stability you have for little time I have know you while working together in ReNeal Tanzania. I encourage you to keep being more strong and I with my colleague give a promise to give you a tremendous cooperation to ensure that Rene future goals get fulfilled. May Neal's soul rest in eternal peace, and may you find solace in knowing that his legacy will continue to light the path for future generations. In deepest sympathy and Sorrow, Frank E. Kimaro ICT Officer Arusha Regional Secretariat

  • 01/01/2025

    Gregory Mbifile

    Neal R Bierbaum was truly man of people, we received a real true love from a bottom of your ❤️ heart, your kindness and helpness will remain as permanent sign today and tomorrow in our life

  • 01/01/2025

    Rober Nyangaka

    Dear Neal, Words cannot express the profound impact you had on my life. Your guidance and wisdom transformed me both professionally and personally. I will forever cherish our work moments together, Your legacy will continue to inspire me. Rene and family, Please know that you are not alone during this difficult time. Our team is here to support you and offer our condolences.

  • 01/01/2025

    Tonnie

    I am deeply saddened to hear of Neal's passing. His remarkable contributions to education and digital transformation here in Tanzania, especially his efforts to enhance digital literacy in schools, have left a lasting impact and Legacy. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. With sympathy. Tonnie.

  • 01/01/2025

    Mwl Dennis Bakuza

    Raha ya milele umpe. Na mwanga wa milele umuangazie apumzike kwa amani. Neal umeweka alama isiyofutika Komoto sekondari Babati Manyara Tanzania.

  • 01/01/2025

    Craig david

    I am deeply sad to share the news that my grand father has passed away. He was an incredible person who bought joy and warmth to everyone around them,I know this is a challenging time to your family and they appreciate your thought and support. lets remember the wounderful moments we shared with neal and the positive impact they had on our lives. We will be holding a memory to honor you as our grandfather..

  • 01/01/2025

    Daniel J Miboki

    I received with great sorrow the news of the passing of Neal Bierbaum, the CEO and founder of Reneal International Outreach. I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to you personally, his family, and the entire Reneal team. The loss of a visionary like Neal is a tremendous blow, not only to his family and friends but also to the community he served so passionately. His contributions were truly unique, and he was deeply committed to improving the lives of many through education. As Daniel, I will always remain indebted to him for his significant role in my educational journey. He was more than just a leader; he was a mentor and a moral compass for everyone around him. While words may not suffice to express the sorrow you feel, please take comfort in knowing that his love and legacy will live on through the remarkable work of Reneal. May God console you and grant you strength during this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace. With love, **DANIEL J. MIBOKI**

  • 01/01/2025

    Dr. Jabhera Matogoro, Lecturer - The University of Dodoma

    Neal R. Bierbaum made a significant impact on digital transformation in Tanzania. Through the efforts of Neal and Rene, five schools in Kondoa transitioned from teaching computer studies abstractly and theoretically to providing students with hands-on experience using modern laptops. Ula, Bicha, Bukuru, and Amani Abeid Karume Secondary Schools in Kondoa express their heartfelt condolences in a special way. Though you are no longer with us, your work and legacy will continue to inspire and benefit our students and community. As we mourn, we find comfort in the words of Scripture: "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." – Revelation 21:4

  • 01/01/2025

    Zakayo Mkondya

  • 01/01/2025

    Elibariki Melami

    I know neal kupitia reneal We will miss you so much Im truly sorry your loss madam Stay strong and safe as always

  • 12/31/2024

    Alex Ndosi

    On behalf of all school leaders in Tanzania who have benefited from laptops and related equipment donated by Reneal International Education Outreach, we stand in solidarity with you, Rene Bierbaum, during this difficult time following the sudden loss of your beloved husband, Neal Bierbaum. We acknowledge that Neal was a tremendous asset to us, both teachers and students, who have greatly benefited from this project in the teaching and learning process. This initiative has had significant impacts in our nation, especially during this era of digital transformation. Neal's passing is a great loss to us, as he dedicated so much of his time, energy and money to ensuring that teachers, students, and the broader community benefit from ICT.

  • 12/31/2024

    ASHURA HAMIS

    In loving memory of Neal, whose generosity and vision continue to inspire us Reneal Team Tanzania. Neal's dedication to empowering students in Tanzania through the donation of computers has created lasting opportunities for education and growth of Technology. His selfless contributions have touched countless lives in our Team as Software Developer, opening doors to knowledge and new possibilities for students and teachers who may have otherwise been left behind. Neal's legacy lives on in every student who now has the tools to dream bigger and achieve more. We are forever grateful for his kindness, and his impact will be felt for generations to come. Rest in peace, Neal (Mr. Python) Your cherish, smile and generosity will never be forgotten. Ashura Hamis Reneal Team Tanzania (Graphics Designer)

  • 12/31/2024

    David Nyangaka

    Neal Bierbaum was a truly great person, a tireless worker who collaborated closely with his wife, Rene Bierbaum. Together, they played a pivotal role in ensuring that public secondary schools in Tanzania adopted digital learning. Neal was a true hero, making an immense impact on this project. By the time of his passing, they had reached a total of 100 schools across 30 districts in Tanzania. Each school received 20 laptops, a large server built by Neal himself, containing curriculum and extra-curricular books, past papers, video tutorials, science simulations, a UPS, and a voltage regulator. Go well, Neal, our hero! Arusha will forever remember you! TANZANIA will forever remember you, and the world will forever remember your heart and dedication to serving others. Our deepest condolences to your twin, your friend, and your wife, Rene. We promise to offer her every kind of support to carry forward the incredible work you initiated. Until we meet again, legend! David Nyangaka, Reneal IEO Country Director,Tanzania...Mollel Jr

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