It is with heavy hearts, and much gratitude for the joy he brought to our lives that we announce the passing of Neil W. McDermid on June 3, 2021 after having lived what he considered to be “a wonderful life!”. Neil passed on with the same grace and dignity in which he lived his life. Predeceased by his wife Isobel McDermid (nee Howman), and his beloved black labs, Tara, Tara Too, and Tara 3. Neil will be sadly missed, and lovingly, and forever remembered by Karen, Fe, Merley, Kellee, Zara, Grace and Paige, Meaghan, Agnes and Niela, and many dear and cherished friends. He touched the lives of so many throughout his 97 years, and instilled in all of us his belief that “life is meant to be enjoyed”. And enjoy it he did!
Neil served in the Royal Canadian Air Force from 1943 to 1946 and was awarded his Pilot Wings on February 25, 1943, moving through the ranks of Pilot Officer, Flying Instructor and finally appointed as a Sub-Lieutenant in 1945. He was later appointed as Honorary Colonel of the 78th Fraser Highlanders of Canada in Montreal.
After his service, Neil studied engineering at McGill University, graduating in the Engineering Class of 50’. He maintained the cherished friendships he made with many of his McGill Class of 50’ classmates throughout his entire life.
Neil later qualified and became a registered Patent and Trademark Agent during his tenure at Dupont. He went on to enjoy a very successful career managing the Montreal offices of Fetherstonhaugh & Co., and later started his own practice in Kingston, Ontario in 1986. Throughout his career he was a mentor to many, always encouraging hard work, and pushing those around him to achieve their full potential. Neil continued his work as a Patent Agent, side by side with Karen until he was 83, and remained of counsel to Karen until the very end.
After selling his home in 2015, which he had designed and built in 1953 on Lakeshore Rd. in Beaconsfield, Neil moved to Selection Retraite West Island. As with everything, Neil embraced the change, fostering many new friendships, and hosting some very memorable parties. Neil so enjoyed watching others dancing and enjoying life. Always humble, he got so much joy from bringing joy to others.
Thank you to all of the staff at Selection Retraite West Island. A special thank you to Wendy Cummings, who made his move and stay there so seamless and fun. You were always a little ray of sunshine. A very special thank you to Dr. Nantel-Smith and Caroline Bertincourt at Lakeshore General Hospital for going so far above and beyond to ensure Neil received the care he needed, especially during COVID. Thank you to Sara at the CSSS for your care and compassion, and to the nurses and care provided by NOVA. A very heartfelt thank you to Dr. Richer and the nurses at St. Anne Hospital for your professional care and compassion which brought great peace to Neil, as well as to Karen and Fe.
“Having a grateful disposition brings about other virtues, including generosity, compassion, humility, joy, wisdom, trust and integrity.” Bree Miller. This was Neil. He leaves a beautiful and rich legacy.
Funeral services for Neil will be held in the Chapel at Collins Clarke at 1:00, Tuesday, June 29nd, 2021. A celebration of Neil’s life is being postponed until we can safely gather to celebrate his wonderful life. If you would like to make a donation in Neil’s name, please consider a donation to Lakeshore General Hospital, NOVA West Island, or The Quebec Veterans Foundation, or another charity of your choice.
Godspeed our dear friend.
Only immediate family are attending the private funeral service at this time, however flowers and condolences can always be sent through the funeral home. A direct livestream service will be made available at the start of the funeral service and a recording will remain for those who would like to watch at a later time. Requests for an invitation can always be asked, to see if it will be allowed (under 25 people) at the time requested, through Karen Pratt.
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