Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Neil David Bannatyne Baird
Neil Baird Obituary
October 26, 1966 - October 21, 2025
It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely death of Neil, our much-loved brother, uncle, and friend. We fondly remember an outgoing and cheerful boy who had many childhood adventures with his identical twin brother, Colin, often involving the substitution of one for the other in circumstances where it was agreed to be advantageous. He was educated at Monterey Elementary, Glenlyon School, and graduated from St Michael's University School. He found his calling in the hospitality industry, eventually becoming the co-owner of The Beagle Pub and other businesses on Cook Street.
Neil was a highly intelligent, sensitive, courteous, affable, and engaging person. He had a memory like a steel trap, a joke for every occasion, and a gift for putting people at their ease. He gave generously to many charitable organizations and was always available to help those in need. He was blessed with a community of faithful and caring friends who have rallied around in recent days to comfort us with their support and encouragement. We have been fortified, as well, by the outpouring of sympathy from our large, wonderful family across Canada, and in Scotland, England, Northern Ireland, the U.S. and South Africa.
Neil was predeceased by his loving parents, Alastair and Janet, and leaves behind his siblings Shauna (Michael), Robin (Leslie), Islay (Iain) and Colin, his nieces Michaela, Jillian, Natalie, Rachel, Hannah and Jane, and his nephews Callum and Alastair. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A celebration of his life will be organised on a date to be determined.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallgardens.com
Memories and Condolences
for Neil Baird
Sponsored by the Victoria Times Colonist.
8 Entries
Rob and Anita Parris
November 18, 2025
We are so very sorry to hear of Neil´s passing. We will always remember the days growing up on the same street and all the memories our families shared. Neil was kind-hearted and outgoing, with a warm embracing smile. We always enjoyed seeing him. Anita and I send love and strength to all the Baird family during this difficult time.
Mary Crooks
November 18, 2025
Sad to hear the news about Neil. My condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Iris Zaleschuk
November 17, 2025
I met Neil from working at Cecconi´s and I was working at fifth Street bar and Grill so we have the same bosses so we got to know each other very very well and over the years always stayed really good friends. I worked with him on special occasions when he bartended for private functions, I would help him out anyways it´s a very deep deep loss And I send my deepest condolences to the family.
Tim Sine
November 17, 2025
I'm so sorry to hear of Neil's passing. My condolences to his family and friends, as this is a big loss. I hadn't seen Neil often in the last decade (or two), but I always enjoyed running into him and catching up. He will be greatly missed.
Loesha Donaldson
November 16, 2025
Continued from earlier message: my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Neil.
Jill Wilkinson- now Loesha Donaldson
November 16, 2025
Neil was the little brother of Shauna, who was my friend in our youth. I remember Neil and a cheerful, bright boy and the happy times the family had when I was around. I´m very sad to see he has passed. My condolences to the family. Hi Shauna from your old friend.´m
Karin Knowlton
November 16, 2025
I was so very sad to hear this news. Neil was such a sweet..genuine..caring guy. We both have businesses in the Cook Street Village...he would always pop his head into to say hi...sometimes with his dog. I love that he adored his dog..it says so much about him. Neil had a great sense of humour...a twinkle in his eye. My condolences to his family and friends.
Bart Reed
November 16, 2025
Condolences to Neil's family and many, many friends.
Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results