Ronald Francis MacNeil

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of Ronald Francis MacNeil, age 56, on March 23rd, in Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital. Ronnie passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Ronnie was a son of the late Gladys and Sandy MacNeil of Mabou. Ronnie was a dedicated worker and was employed for 29 years at Georgia Pacific. In his last working year he was employed out west at Kiwit Construction.

Ronnie has left to mourn, his wife and best friend of 30 years ,TC MacNeil and his beloved daughters, of whom he was so proud, Leah,Erika and Danielle. Ronnie is also survived by his brothers, John (Sue), Ontario; Gregory (Hughene), Judique; Arthur (Theresa), Mabou; Neil (Mary), Port Hastings; and his sisters, Louise MacIsaac (Willie), Judique, and Marlene MacLean (Malcolm), Sydney, as well as many nieces and nephews. Ronnie was predeceased by his parents, Gladys and Sandy MacNeil; an infant brother, Gregory, and his Aunt Mary "Minnie".

Ronnie will be remembered for his sense of humour, his love of life and his willingness to lend a hand. He enjoyed simple pleasures and time spent with family and friends. He loved animals and took great care of family pets Marvin and Millie. Ronnie was an enthusiastic Bruins fan and could bake a great apple pie.

As per Ronnie’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate care of the Inverness Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 26, from 7-9 p.m. and Friday March 27, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. in Port Hood Resting Place. The funeral mass will be held in St. Peters Parish Church on Saturday, March 28th at 11 a.m. with Father Bernie MacDonald officiating. Burial in the parish cemetery at a later date. Family flowers only please. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Central Inverness Palliative Care Society or to a charity of your choice.

The family would like to thank the staff, particularly the nurses, at the Inverness hospital for the excellent and compassionate care that Ronnie received. Special thanks to Lori Ann MacDonald, Johnina Lee and Doctors Lok, Ritter and McCormick. The family would also like to thank the many community members, friends, relatives and neighbours who extended their kindness out of genuine concern for Ronnie during his lengthy illness. Finally the family would like to express our extreme pride in how Ronnie dealt with his illness with such patience, dignity and strength.

On-line condolences may be made to www.invernessfuneralhome.com