McNEIL, Joseph "Joe" James - 64, Alberta, formerly of Truro. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joe McNeil, on Saturday, March 27, 2010, in Alberta. Born December 4, 1945, in London, Ontario, Joe was a son of the late Robert and Margaret McNeil (Pritchett). Joe grew up in the Truro area and moved to Alberta in the sixties where he married Darlene (Varty) and became owner/operator of Go Joe's Banding Oilfield Maintenance Ltd. in Swan Hills Alberta. Joe loved the earth that God entrusted to him and he was an avid outdoorsman who respected the environment. His intricate knowledge of the land and nature allowed him to guide and teach his sons and seven grandchildren the same keen interest he shared for it. More than anything, Joe had a fierce love for every member of his family and his parting words to any of them were always and without fail "I love you". Joe paved the way for many a young lad and nephew to get started on the call to "Go West Young Man" never asking for anything in return, except maybe a smile or a "Bud" now and then. Joe had seven grandchildren and each of them was the absolute apple of his eye. He mentored them at every opportunity and at every turn in the roads of their little lives. A very kind and giving soul, he never forgot the humble beginnings of his childhood and countless times Joe reached out to assist many over the years; never in a boastful manner and always in silence. Joe will be fondly and forever remembered by his wife of 41 years, Darlene; sons, Vernon "Vern" (Tina) and Timothy "Tim" (Brie); grandchildren, Brice, Lucas, Calin, Wesley, Reece, Ally and Tia. Also left to cherish Joe's memory are his brothers, Frank McNeil (Carolyn) Crowes Mills; Michael (Mike) McNeil (Carolyn) Truro; sisters, Susan McNeil-Gosby (Ralph), Truro; Sandra "Sandy" McNeil-Mellish (Barry), Truro; many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. Joe was predeceased by his parents Robert "Bob" and Margaret McNeil; loving sister Mary Jane McNeil (1988). A memorial service was held at the Keyano Centre in Swan Hills, Alberta on Saturday, April 3, 2010. Donations in Joe's memory may be made and will be gratefully accepted to a charity of your choice at Mattatall ~ Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting the "Guest Book" at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com