Neil was never one to let his chair define who he was, and a lot of the time, it seemed like more of a prop than a necessity, something he could use to play with your perceptions. I remember having a dream where Neil made an appearance, and it was only after waking up that I realized that he had been on his feet, just like everyone else who was in the dream. In the moment, that was completely unexceptional.

He never seemed to let his situation hold him back. He would often go to house parties, and I (and our friend Geoff) would carry him (and the chair) up and down stairs. It got to be such a routine that I think we could have done it in our sleep. And considering how late some of those parties went... He was, and is, inspiring.

For those who are interested;

Neils memorial video can be found at the following link.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xbe6XqqmPv8

Feel free to share his incredible journey through life.

Diane,
So sorry for your loss, sending you a big hug and peace during this difficult time.
Gladys

A beautiful tribute to an incredible person who led a remarkable life. Our heartfelt condolences.

On behalf of the Board and staff at the Centre for Independent Living in Toronto (CILT) I'd like to offer our sincere condolences to Neil's family and friends. Neil was an active and engaged Board Member at CILT for many years. Neil always brought a thoughtful consideration and humor to his role on our Board. He was very respected by all who had to pleasure of working with him. He recently even designed updated logos helping CILT to celebrate our 40th anniversary. Thinking of you all as we mourn the loss of Neil who was indeed a caring and admired member of our community. 
We have also posted a tribute to Neil on the CILT website. 
Wendy Porch, Executive Director, CILT

My Neil rest in peace Diane.

I first met you when you were a child. I have the sweet memory of you and Neil dancing at Matthew's Wedding. 

My sincere condolences,

jeje
(friend of your family)

Diane and family

"(We) can't take away your pain. But (we) can sit with you and be witness to how the fractures in your heart become filled with the gold of your courage. " John Roedel

Neil... you are missed. 

Much love

Wallace and Melanie

Dearest Diane, 

Sending our sincerest condolences for your loss.  Many memories have been shared over the last 9+ years as you created a beautiful life with Neil.  And while you would have loved to spend many more decades with him our Lord had a different plan for him.  May he rest in peace and I hope you are assured that he will be looking over you from above wishing you nothing but happiness throughout your life.  Love Elias, Yvonne, and Ray Abi-Abdallah and Marina, Valentina and Alejandro.

Photos of Neil and I better known as KNEELA KNEEL
Our Performance and Sound Art shows. 
I never saw the wheelchair, I only saw great possibilities, strength, and kindness in Neil. I treasure my time with Neil heart to heart. Sorry Neil but I can’t say goodbye, I have never said goodbye. We shall meet again. My deepest condolences to Diane Mercer, and the Mercer Family. All that knew and loved Neil.  Godbless and comfort you always. 
Love Neela Chhaniara

A Poster to one of our many shows. 
Neil and I good back a long way. We met at Ontario College of Art and Design. 
We had an incredible friendship beyond words.  I have memories over 20yrs with Neil. It would take a book to write everything. Each experience and moment with Neil was fantastic. Love you Neil!

Just wanted to say how much Neil’s friendship has ment to  me over the last few years.
I first met Neil & Diane online group
through independent living Waterloo, T-6 Talk, that was held once a month.

Neil’s quick witted sense of humour came through quickly,.
Neil added  a wonderful perspective on life that made everyone listen closely.

I had the opportunity last February, while attending and Nero trauma I conference in Toronto, I had the pleasure of going out for dinner with Neil and Diane, it sure was a pleasure to meet them in person.

 When hearing of Neil’s passing I was absolutely stunned and immediately saddened for Diane.

My heart goes out to Diane and family.

I’m so thankful that I was able to know Neil 
even that it was a short time, I know he’s  made my life much richer.

My deepest condolences go out to 
Diane and extended family.

Phil

Hi Diane 
My deepest condolences for your loss, I feel your pain, loosing a loved one.

To Neil’s beloved Diane, his amazing family, and his wonderful and devoted friends, we send our love and strength. We have known and loved Neil for over 36 years, and we are devastated to live in a world that doesn’t include him. We take solace in the many beautiful memories we have of Neil’s incredibly kind and generous heart, and will always remember his artistic talent, and his great humour and wit.  

“i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)” –  ee cummings

Always and forever,

Sarah Benjamin Crymble, Phillip Crymble, and Ben Crymble

Neil Peter Mercer was an inspiration to us all, a gentleman.  With all our love from his cousins in Wales, Simon and Sarah, his Aunty Brenda, widow of his Uncle Peter.  Also Benjamin, Harri, James, Daisy, Sue and Andrew xxxx

We had many great times thank you for the memories and years of laughter and fun.

John and I send our condolences.  Neil meant a lot to us our hearts are broken.  May he look down on us and watch over us as we take care of each other now.

Will miss you in the summer on the patio where ww spent many summers eating and enjoying the day.

Sharing our birthday's great party that Diane and John planned for us. In 2019.

Dear Diane and Mercer family,

Please accept my sincere condolences on the unexpected loss of Neil.

We met years ago as consumers of Tobias House Attendant Care. Neil had an energy and enthusiasm for life that was contagious. We both served on the board of directors for Tobias and I always knew Neil had my back.

Neil enjoyed the life Tobias House allowed him to build - especially when he met and fell in love with Diane. He was always happy but he was happiest with Diane.

There is a huge void around us as we always thought of Neil as invincible. We will miss seeing him in his favourite spot at TMU in the sun. 

May his wonderful spirit live forever.

To all Neil's family and loved ones,
Sending sympathy for your loss.  May you find some warmth, laughter and love as you share memories of Neil with each other. 
Take good care,  Kim Plisek
Friend of Paul and family

OBITUARIO

Neil Peter Mercer

5 noviembre, 1967 – 8 noviembre, 2024

Rosar-Morrison Funeral Home & Chapel

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