Animal companions hold a special place in our hearts and no one knew this better than William Neuliep, known affectionately as “Doc.”

Neuliep passed away earlier this month at Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon and was a staple in the Rochelle area as a veterinarian for over six decades.
The Rochelle community fondly remembers Doc as a wonderful veterinarian and wonderful friend who cared deeply for all animals. Serving his community for 63 years, Neuliep was known to answer the call at anytime to help an injured or sick animal.
“Doc not only cared for the animals, but he also showed much love towards the animals’ parents as well,” said Rochelle resident Susie Land. “He would ask how our pets were doing and if we were doing anything new. He went way above and beyond the call of a veterinarian.”
“He was an amazing man…saved my cat more than once — no matter how busy he was he always made time,” said Farrah Hicks. Heaven gained a great one.”

James “Spud” Supancic remembers Neuliep as a caring veterinarian whose love for animals was evident simply by how sympathetic he was. Neuliep was known to explain the severity of an animal’s illness or injury.
“He loved the work…working with animals and helping people. He did his best to show and explain what was needed and to give that reassurance,” Supancic said. “He was good at verbal hand holding, and he was very reasonable with the cost of his services.”
Rochelle resident Connie Dougherty said she remembers Neuliep during a most difficult time when she and husband Ken were preparing to put their beloved Springer Spaniel down. Dougherty and her husband had arrived at Neuliep’s office with their dog, Tasha, visibly upset.
“Doc talked to us for a few minutes and told us to take our Tasha back home. He said we weren’t ready and to come back when we were. A couple weeks later there was no question about it and so back we went,” Dougherty said. “He helped us through the heartbreaking process. He was a wonderful veterinarian and a wonderful friend. We will always miss him.”
Doc touched the lives of many in the Rochelle area and surrounding community, such as the Pelka family in Kings.
“He was our family vet for years,” said Allie Pelka. “Loved him and will be missed by many!”
Doc was also known as an avid gardener and Rochelle Garden Club member beloved by all.