Neil passed away peacefully on August 19th in the arms of his loving wife Marilyn of 60 years.

Neil also leaves behind his daughter Holly (Bob) with grandchildren Ty, Guy, Shania and Mark, son Brent (Rosemary) with grandchildren Teris and Carson and son Stephen (Jeanette) with grandchildren Logan, Meg and Ben. Neil also had 3 great grandchildren: Stride, Beckett and Luke.

Neil was predeceased by his parents Isobel and Max and his brother Ian. He is survived by his sister Carol.

Neil was born in 1938 in Killam Alberta. He grew up on the family farm southeast of Viking. Neil attended Lakeford School and then finished his schooling at Viking School.

Neil shared many fond memories of growing up on the farm and the experiences of attending a country school where his mom was the teacher. He also fondly recalled the friendships with the neighbors that he grew up with.

Neil and Marilyn married in 1961. While raising their children, they kept busy by volunteering in church, 4H and Scouts. Neil found it important to instill in his children the importance of community involvement.

Neil was employed by NorthWestern Utilities and remained with them for 39 years. He forged many long lasting friendships with his fellow NorthWestern employees and could share countless stories about the memorable experiences during his career. In 1995 Neil retired and began the next chapter of his life.

From 1995 until his passing, Neil loved spending time with his family and friends. Neil could often be found spending time on his farm, where he enhanced habitat through planting trees and created a series of walking trails for family and wildlife to enjoy. Additionally, gardening and landscaping were a huge part of Neil's passion. His ability to grow high yielding vegetable and flower gardens was always impressive. Throughout his life, Neil loved spending most of his time outdoors. Pursuing geese, ducks, pheasants, moose, deer, antelope and elk kept him occupied during the fall season. Neil particularly enjoyed hunting with his sons and grandsons and always cherished those moments.

Neil was a horseman. He spent countless hours working with his horses. In return, his horses were always excited to see his white truck show up at the corral. In the winter Neil would often hook up his horses to the cutter and take family and friends for a ride and reminisce about days gone by.

For over 25 years, Neil and Marilyn enjoyed their annual trips to Hawaii. While in Hawaii, Neil and Marilyn would explore, enjoy the sun, meet up with friends and family, and look forward to 3 weeks less of winter.

Neil was a "jack-of-all trades"; he had the ability to build or fix anything. His natural patience and ability to approach any challenge was a true asset that he shared with those around him.

Neil was a kind, gentle and honest soul, he lived his life as a gentleman and was one to never complain. Neil's confidence and perseverance was an asset that he helped instill in his children and grandchildren

Over the past few years, Neil suffered significant health challenges and was confined to his home. As true to his character, Neil never complained about his situation and accepted it for what it was.

The family would like to acknowledge the wonderful care that was provided to Dad by the Misericordia Hospital and Viking Health Center. Thank you for the love you shared for our father.

We are proud of Neil and for the life he has built for our family.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, August 25, 2022 at  2:00 P.M. at the Golden Valley Lutheran Church, Viking, Alberta, with Pastor Ron  Chetney officiating.  Interment will be at the Viking Cemetery, Viking, Alberta.

Donations in memory of Neil may be made to the Viking Health Foundation, Viking, Alberta T0B 4N0.

A livestream of the service will be available via the Golden Valley Lutheran Church Facebook page. The stream will begin shortly before the service and can be found by following this link: https://www.facebook.com/goldenvalleylutheran/