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BLACK, Neil Haggerty

August 31, 1930 – March 18, 2015

It is with heavy hearts that we advise you of Neil’s passing; he is at peace after many years of struggle

with Parkinson’s and dementia. Neil was born and raised in Saskatchewan, joined the RCAF in 1951 serving in Moose Jaw, Trenton, Whitehorse, Edmonton, Comox, Ottawa and retired in Comox in 1975 with the rank of Warrant Officer. He and late friend, Dick Waite, ‘knocked together’ a few houses, then Neil took RV service training and helped George Barrs set up the RV Parts and Service Center where he served 13 years as manager, retiring again in 1991.

Neil is survived by his wife of 60 years, Leona, son Donald (Gaylene and grandson Colin), daughter Karen

(Mark Franklin, grandsons Sean and Cody), his sister Merle Phillips, Airdrie, AB, and many nieces, nephews and their children. Neil’s parents, the late Mabel Beulah and Hector Black farmed near Carnduff, SK. His father bred, raised and showed prize-winning Clydesdales for many years. Neil had wonderful memories of those years on the farm. Neil was predeceased by his parents, sister Agnes McKenzie (the late Donald) of Goodwater, SK, brother Wilmer (“Bill”) (Lillian) and nephew Edward Black, Edmonton, AB.

Neil enjoyed outdoor activities and sports especially baseball, curling, golf, track and field, skiing, hiking,

camping and canoeing. Neil joined the Comox Valley Cougars track and field club where he received excellent coaching from Rick and John. He participated in Terry Fox Runs, BC Seniors Games and several national events. Neil was a member of the Evergreen Seniors and enjoyed pouring coffee at Pancake Breakfasts, was a long-time member of the Lions Club (Comox Valley and Monarchs). As a member of the Nordics ski club he participated in marathons and excursions with friends. Neil also enjoyed outings with the Evergreen’s Camera Club; a number of his photos graced the front page of the Newsletter.

Neil had absolutely the best care team in the Valley and special thanks go to Drs Reggler, Blacklock,

Schovanek, Ruthven, Woods, Nurse Susan, Neil’s Case Manager Terri McLennan, Outreach Nurses Brent and Andrew, OT Laurel Steed, and others whose names escape at this time. Also thanks to St. Joseph’s ER staff, especially Nurse Shelley, where Neil was well cared for, too frequently, the last being a broken hip, and to 3rd floor staff where Neil had wonderful care during his recent and final stay. Thanks also to the Glacier View Day Program and Respite staff, as well as the very patient Handy Dart driver, Marianne.

Sincere thanks go out to all our friends who have supported us in many ways through these last difficult

years; we are grateful for your help and support. Flowers respectfully declined but if you wish, please make a donation to the Lions, Glacier View Lodge, or a charity of your choice. A Celebration of Neil’s life will take place in May.



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