NEIL PATTERSON

NEIL PATTERSON
It is with great sadness that the family of Neil Wallace Patterson (Wally) announces his passing on February 5, 2025, after a battle with cancer.

Neil was born on May 11, 1952, to Lonson and Dorothie Patterson and was raised in Fort William. Following graduation from Selkirk High School, Neil continued his education at Confederation College, where he studied both Civil and Mechanical Engineering. This led to his career at Great Lakes Paper beginning in 1976 and lasting nearly 40 years. Throughout those years, he was greatly respected by coworkers, who appreciated both his strong work ethic and witty sense of humour. Neil could always make a bad day at work better. Once the work week ended, Neil could be found by following the music, a great passion of his. He enjoyed a variety of "tunes," whether in his basement, backyard, garage, or his favourite place on earth, Pete's Lake. He was known to spend as much of his spare time as possible there. This was his happy place; he enjoyed making the late-night rounds to his Pete's Lake neighbours and was fondly known as the 'mayor of Pete's.' Throughout his life, Neil also spent many of his summers at Grand Beach, MB, with the Patterson family. It was a place he cherished and looked forward to visiting, staying in the family cabins and making memories with his siblings and cousins.

Neil's positivity radiated through all aspects of his life. You could always guarantee it was going to be a good time if Neil was there! He was the life of the party and made sure everyone felt welcomed. Being such a compassionate man, he genuinely cared for each person in his life and considered his friends to be family. These strong bonds were evident as he was never alone throughout his battle; a friendly face was present at each moment, as if there was a planned schedule to ensure he never felt alone. Words cannot express the appreciation to all who came to spend time with him.

Neil married the love of his life, Janet, on February 28, 1976, and they raised two children, Jessica and Cole. Neil was an incredibly proud father and grandfather and loved spending time with his family. Throughout the years, he became an amazing grandpa who enjoyed spoiling his babies, including his fur baby, Zoey. His daily visits and phone calls will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate to be part of his life.

Neil will be lovingly remembered by Janet, his wife of 48 years; his daughter, Jessica (Adam); and his son, Cole (Ashley); his beloved grandchildren, Kailee (Zach), Lochlan, Sawyer, and Hazel; his brother, Ross (Lorraine); his sister, Leigh (Don); his brother-in-law, Nick (Pam); and his many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Neil was predeceased by his parents, Lonson and Dorothie Patterson; his in-laws, Nick and Betty Dutchak; and his brother-in-law, Cameron Dutchak.

A celebration of Neil's life will be held on March 8, 2025 at the DaVinci Centre in the Michelangelo Room beginning at 2pm.

Condolences may be offered at www.harbourviewfuneral.ca