ROBERT (BOB) ALLAN NEIL

October 19, 1944 - April 1, 2026

We are deeply saddened to announce that Robert (Bob) Allan Neil passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, following a lengthy illness, at the age of 81.

Born on October 19, 1944 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Bob was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

He will be deeply missed by his wife Carole, daughters Jennifer and Allison (Ryan), and grandchildren Joshua (Brianne), Elise (Dawson), Kohl and Devin, brother Brian (Jeanette), sister-in-law Donna, and many nieces, nephews, extended family & dear friends. He is predeceased by his parents Stanley & Jennie Neil, and brother Wayne.

Raised in Winnipeg’s West End alongside his brothers Wayne and Brian, Bob began his working life in the 1960’s with a trucking company. He later joined Burns Foods, where he was known for bringing home the finest steaks to share at family BBQs. Bob went on to build a long and dedicated career with Federated Co-op, where he worked for over 30 years before retiring.

Bob and Carole were married on May 15, 1971—a journey that spanned 54 wonderful years. He was an exemplary father to their two daughters; steady, dependable, and always leading by example in how to care for and respect others.

He loved curling and bowling with family and friends over the years, enjoying each moment spent together. He especially enjoyed time with his coffee buddies; solving the problems of this world.

A favourite pastime for Bob was spending hours in his shed, always on the lookout for a project— whether it was fixing something, building something, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee. Under Carole’s guidance, he was responsible for creating elaborate displays outside their home for various holidays, including Christmas, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick's Day, and Easter. Bob did the work & Carole got the accolades from neighbours; and he was perfectly fine with that.

Bob could fix almost anything. And if he didn’t already know how, he’d make sure to learn—taking courses in electrical work, small engines, appliance repair, and more. He believed in doing things the right way, and his patient, perfectionist nature showed in every job he took on. Family and friends knew they could count on him for advice or direction. More often than not, Bob would simply roll up his sleeves and get to work, alongside them, sharing his knowledge and his time. Bob was also a backyard mechanic, and with his good friend Bob Buckmaster, they knew just about everything there was to know. Between the two of them, they could fix anything—whether they were talking it through or working in the backyard.

Above all else, he cherished the time spent at the family cottage at Malachi Lake; enjoying the rustic setting, accessible only by train or boat. It was there, for more than 5 decades, that he fully embraced the art of "puttering," often spending months at a time immersed in projects, cutting the grass, relaxation & coffee. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, basic living, fishing on the lake, and being surrounded by family and friends. He instilled the same passion and appreciation for these simple joys in his children; leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to grow and be carried forward by Allison and Ryan.

Bob was laid-back, easygoing and rarely anxious. His approach to life was unhurried, flexible, and taking things in stride. Needed someone to untangle knots in a necklace? Bob was the guy. Nothing was too small to fix, or too tedious if it meant making things whole again. He always said “yes” when someone asked for help, always present; showing up to get the job done. He was a quiet man who modelled respect, and most importantly, offered unconditional love.

Cremation has taken place and a private family celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later date.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the dedicated Palliative Care staff for their compassionate support. Many thanks to Cropo Funeral Chapel for their assistance during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.