65, Sydney
It is with heavy hearts and great sadness we announce the passing of Neil Edward ‘Biff’ MacNeil on May 8, 2011, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Sydney, Aug. 8, 1945, Biff was the son of the late Neil and Rose MacNeil.
Biff was a kind and gentle soul who loved life. He enjoyed fishing, tying flies, watching wrestling, and doing puzzles. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends who he loved dearly. He also had a love of music which was inspired by his musical gift of playing guitar.
In earlier years Biff worked for Coca Cola Bottling in Sydney, N.S. He also was a professional painter by trade and ‘Mr. Fix It’ in anything he did.
He will be sadly missed by soulmate and best friend, Julia MacDonald and her children, Kirk (Karla), Lori (Darryl) and Ryan (Alicia); special son, John (Lydia and family); daughter, Leanne (Kirt) and son, Neil MacNeil; special grandson, Brendon Hewer; granddaughter, Lilly MacIsaac (his angel) as well as several other grandchildren. Biff is also survived by sisters, Alice (Dan) Planetta, Mary (Derrick) Coates, Marjorie (Jessie) Vienneau, Donna (Francis) Aucoin and Sharon Chipman; brothers, Alexander MacNeil and Scott (Ann) MacNeil; as well many other extended family members.
Biff was predeceased by stepson, Glen, brother, Richard ‘Butch’ Chipman, and sister-in-law, Sharon MacNeil.
Funeral service to celebrate Neil Edward ‘Biff’ MacNeil’s life will be held Thursday, May 12, 2011, at 2 p.m. at Pier Community Funeral Home, All Faith Chapel, Whitney Pier, 1092 Victoria Rd. (entrance on Church Street) with Fr. Anthony O’Connor officiating. Light refreshments will be served following the service in the reception area. A private family interment will take place at a later date.
We would to take this time to thank the palliative care unit at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney, for your compassion and care for Biff and the family during this difficult time.
Donations in Biff’s memory may be made to charity of your choice.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
“His smiling way and pleasant face
Are a pleasure to recall,
He had a kindly word for each,
And died beloved by all.”
