Nathan McNeil
Born: October 5th, 1924
Passed on: July 8th, 2017
It is with treasured memories that we, the family of Thomas Nathan McNeil, 92, announce his sudden passing on Saturday, July 8, 2017, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. He was born on October 5, 1924, and spent his life in Alder Point. He was the son of the late Angus and Gladys (Almon) McNeil. He married Lorraine Laffin in 1949, and they raised a beautiful family together.
Nathan was a gentleman to all who knew him. He had such a kind and gentle soul. He was a beloved Dad, Poppy, Grand Poppy, brother, uncle and friend to so many. His life revolved around his family. Saturday’s gatherings at the homestead for Roni Day were a highlight. Nathan was known for his amazing stories (especially fish stories told by the boys, or the big one that got away.) His love was helping out his family, and taking pleasure in their success. Nathan was such a proud man, with an infectious smile. He cherished and enjoyed the simplicities of life. Camping was one of Da’s simple pleasures. To this day, he is still recognized for his famous chip fries and corn boils.
He drove more miles in reverse than his kids drove forward.
Dad had many professions during his long life. He was a self-employed coal miner, manager of Bras d’Or Fina Station, and worked as a CN stevedore. Prior to his retirement, he was the owner/operator of Nathan McNeil Backhoe Services.
Nathan was a devoted father to their children, Tommy (Judy), Jeanie (Dave) Viva, Ronnie (Debbie), Richie (Marion), Dougie (Kim) and Alana. He was loving Poppy to, Brad, Michael, Valerie, Tanya, Matthew, Chris, Gardner, Brittany, Hannah, Shannon, Mitchell and Kayla; great-grand Poppy to, Nathan, Parker, Sydney, Oliver, Sara, Avery, Jack, Kate and Max. Nathan is also survived by his brother, David (Elizabeth); sisters-in-law, Florence McNeil and Beverly Bungay, and his good friends, Joe, Billy and Dewey.
Besides his parents, Nathan was predeceased by his loving wife, Lorraine; son Tommy; infant children, Russell, Angus and Mary; great-grandchildren, Gardner Kris, Abbigail and Bradley Jr., and siblings, Irene, Gordon, Willie, Earl, Frances, Cameron and James.
There will be no visitation by request. A celebration of his life will be held Tuesday, July 11, 2017, at 10:30 a.m. in St. Anne’s Church, Alder Point, with Fr. Jake Andrea officiating. A reception will be held in the Alder Point Hall, following the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Nathan’s memory may be made to the Crohns and Colitis Society. Words of comfort may be forwarded to his family at www.jmjobesfuneralhome.com.
“If we all could live our lives with half the integrity this man possessed, what a great world it would be.”
P.S. – Everyone will miss your friendly wave from the kitchen window.
