Obituaries

NEIL GORDON MACKAY Q.C.
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Neil Gordon MacKay on October 20, 2015 at the age of 85 years.
His memory will be forever cherished by his loving wife of 58 years, Shirley, and his three children, Donna (Marty) Polychuk, Gord (Clare) MacKay and Sandra (Jason) Rauhaus. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren Kyle and Kevin Polychuk, Quinn and Mahri MacKay, and Mark and James Rauhaus. He also leaves to mourn his sisters-in-law Jean Brooks, Florence MacKay and Margaret Hagglund and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Bob and Tillie MacKay, his sister Ruth (Cliff) Hodges, brothers Stewart (Elsie) McKay and Alex MacKay, nephew Robert McKay, brother and sister-in-law Howard and Helen Hagglund, and brother-in-law Bill Brooks.
Neil was born on June 8, 1930. He was educated in Clanwilliam Grey School, Minnedosa Collegiate, Brandon College and University of Manitoba Law School. He graduated in 1957, was called to the bar in 1959 and became a Queen’s Counsel (Q.C.) in 1985. Neil practiced law for over 57 years, starting with the Attorney General?s Department, then Tupper Adams and finally his own law office.
Neil was extremely active in his community. Over the years he lent his talents and time to the Big Brothers (charter office), St. Vital Chamber of Commerce, Deer Lodge Foundation, Rotary Club of Assiniboine (Charter President) and the Provincial and Federal Liberal Party (Past President). He was also an active member for 35 years with Ducks Unlimited Canada and was awarded Director Emeritus for his faithful years of volunteering.
Neil was a great outdoorsman, being passionate about hunting and fishing with his family and many good friends. He was an enthusiastic curler at the Granite Curling Club.
Family came first for Dad. Happy memories will be remembered of camping and cottaging, family get-togethers and family holidays. His grandchildren loved to hear stories told by Grandpa.
The family would like to thank the palliative and home care staff for their gentle and compassionate care.
Cremation has taken place. In accordance with Neil’s wishes there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one?s choice.
Wojcik?s Funeral Chapel, 2157 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB in care of arrangements 204.897.4665. For those who wish to sign Wojcik?s online Guest Book please visit our website at www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com