In Celebration of
Neil Alexander Roy
October 9, 1934 -
March 24, 2021
Neil A. Roy passed away peacefully on March 24, 2021. He has been reunited with his loving wife of 60 years, Margaret Frances (Lane), who predeceased him in August 2015. They will now share in eternal life with their savior, his Lord Jesus Christ. Neil was born on October 9 in 1934 in Victoria Harbour, Ontario, the second child of Wilfred and Evelina (Woods) Roy. Neil is lovingly remembered by his 5 sons; Kevin (Debbie) of Owen Sound, Robert of Barrie, Randall (Lynn) of Winthrop NY, Neil Joseph (Judy) of Sebastian, Florida and Darrell (Cindy) of Waterdown. Neil was "Papa" to 9 grandchildren who adored him; Matthew, Aimee, Danielle, Christina, Lindsey, Emily, Darrell, Elise and Raquel. He was known as "BIG Papa" to 10 great-grandchildren. Neil is survived by his siblings Gloria (John) Bernard, Beverly (Diane) Roy and Carol (Rick) Kobart along with many nieces and nephews.
Born and raised in Victoria Harbour, Ontario, Neil demonstrated his outstanding work ethic at 15 years old serving as a steward for 2 years on the S.S. Keewatin of the White Star Cruise line. Neil maintained an interest in the Keewatin throughout his lifetime, participating in reunions, her return to Port McNichol and even writing and performing a tribute song to her. Neil, married at the age of 19, moved to and worked in New Toronto at the Continental Can Company. He retired from the company after 34 years of dedicated employment.
Neil did not rest in retirement. He kept up with technology and his grandchildren by mastering the computer, and cell phone inclusive of Instagram, email and Facebook. Neil loved music and could play any instrument. He taught himself to play the guitar, banjo and mandolin, often providing sing-a-longs and concerts for family and friends. He spent many hours writing, mixing and recording his own music.
Neil, ever a Toronto Maple Leaf fan, coached hockey throughout his boys' minor hockey careers serving as one of the founding contributors to the program in Mississauga. Builder of backyard rinks, swimming pools and trampolines he kept his sons well entertained at home.
When not playing music Neil could be found creating caricatures, calligraphy, scenes and art work at his drawing board. His art work was multimedia consisting of metal, pencil, charcoal, oils, and/or watercolor. One could always count on and look forward to creative, witty cartoons added to birthday cards from Neil.
Spring, summer and fall found Neil tending to his beautiful rose and vegetable gardens. A homegrown rose often provided a centrepiece on the table or piano. The plentiful harvest of tomatoes, onions, beans and rhubarb, canned and prepared by Frances, were always enjoyed by Neil.
Neil will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Due to COVID restrictions, a Private Family Visitation will be held on Monday, March 29. The livestream link to the visitation is https://youtu.be/bpLxaJYFniw
A Private Family Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Mississauga on Tuesday, March 30 at 9:30 a.m. The livestream for the Mass is available at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyexDrhF8WmOtwy2NixwoZQ
Private Interment to follow. A livestream link to the Interment at 11 am is https://youtu.be/wkAoy8kUa_8
For those who wish, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mississauga Fire Fighters Association: Benevolent Fund, please go to the link in the donation section of this website, or to a charity of your choice.