Neil MCCARTHY

MCCARTHY, Neil
1950 - 2013
It is with heartbreak and sadness that we announce the passing of Neil McCarthy on August 20, 2013 at St. Paul's Hospital. He is survived and mourned by his wife Gisele; his children Liam and Caitlin, Mark (Shannon), and Kevin (Mary); his mother Mary and Daddy Al; brother Merlin (Sharon), Uncle Paul (Joan), Aunt Lillian (George); Kim and family, along with numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father John and uncles Jim, Duncan and Frank. Neil was born and raised in Stewiacke, Nova Scotia. He drove out west to Saskatchewan in 1977 with a best pal to follow the work during a 44 year career as a sprinkler fitter with Vipond Automatic Sprinklers. He made his life in this province, and was happy to call the Prairies his home. Neil loved military history and followed his father John's journey as a member of the North Nova Scotia Highlanders in WWII. There were few dates or events within this period that he could not speak to, which also included a keen interest in military airplanes where he could provide the background history for each. The daily and weekend papers were perused thoroughly and he had a keen knowledge of world and current events. He was a crossword enthusiast and the newest puzzle was always looked forward to. Clues were often offered for possible solutions to an often less than helpful group at home whereupon he had to rely on his trusty crossword dictionary, or Google. While he was a fan of NFL and Tony Stewart's Nascar and Paul Tracy's Cart Racing teams, it is his favorite Blue Jays who lost their biggest fan today, a team he alternately cursed and cheered for passionately. Neil's children were his greatest pride and joy and he loved them deeply. He leaves behind shattered hearts and will be forever missed and loved. In the end, his tired body simply refused to co- operate with his desire and quest for life as he slipped away. A visitation will be held on Monday, August 26, 2013 from 12:30 - 1:15 p.m. with a Celebration of Neil's Life to follow at 2:00 p.m., both at Hillcrest Funeral Home (east on 8th Street, first right past Briargate Rd.) Memorial donations in Neil's name may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association (1400 - 522 University Ave., Toronto, ON M5G 2R5) or Heart and Stroke Foundation of Saskatchewan (279 3rd Ave N., Saskatoon, SK S7K 2H7). Online condolences may be sent from www.hillcrestmemorial.ca Arrangements entrusted to Sten Olesen.