December 15, 1936 – July 1, 2019
Passed away at Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital on July 1st 2019 in his 83rd year. Beloved husband of Julie (nee May) for 38 years. Survived by brothers, Harry and Brian McIlroy. Father to Deborah Ann and John Merritt. Step-father to Kelly Rizzo and Matthew Rizzo. Grandfather to five grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Neil served with the Canadian Forces for 27 years, serving with 8th CH on retirement. Neil also served with the Fort Gary Horse Calgary and Lord Strathcona Horse. Neil was elected Chairman of the Board for the township of Restoule, ON, and served for approximately 8 years. He was an active member of the Restoule Lions Club and a former Mason in Toronto, ON. Friends and Family are invited to the Turner Family Funeral Home, 53 Main Street, Dundas, Monday July 22nd from 2 – 3 p.m. with a Memorial service at 3 p.m., reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society (Research).
Hi Julie: I am sure we met. Paul Doesburg Mutual Life. When Neil left our business and went up north I was saddened. We always got along and he was fun to be with. I’m glad I saw the obit in the Spec. I’ve always wondered where he was at. He was a classy guy. Bon Voyage Neil
To Julie and Family: We haven’t met, but I served with Neil many years ago in Petawawa with the 8th Hussars. He was a fine soldier and was well respected. I am sorry for your loss, and offer condolences to you and the family at this sad time. God Bless you all.
RIP old friend.
Regi Patriaeque Fidelis
To Julie and family. My brother served with Neil many years ago, George Chandler. I remember meeting Neil, and I think I bought some furniture from him about 30 years ago?? My brother was a good friend of Neil’s and spoke highly of him. Unfortunately George passed away three years ago in Columbia. Our condolences. Julie and Eddie Bodden
Julie and family:
We were sorry to hear of Neil’s passing. His friendly morning smile and wave have been greatly missed this past year.
We are thinking of you in this time of sorrow. Please take care.
Our prayers and condolences.
Don and Joan Barr
Back in the early sixties, I was a member of 4 Troop COTC, at the Armoured Corps School in Camp Borden. We were the best troop in the School, reason being we had the best instructors, the very best of whom was Cpl McIlroy. He had an envious command of all that was important to us young Officer Cadets. I shall always remember him for teaching me, guiding me, and giving me all he could for my success in the course. My sincere condolences to his family. He was a wonderful young man and excellent soldier.
To Julie, Family and Friends, I am deeply saddened by Neil’s passing and your loss. He was one of the finest soldiers I ever worked with (at Hamilton Militia District HQ), and a true gentleman. He was a great mentor of everyone who worked at HMD if they were smart enough to listen to him – never a screamer, never got mad, just dug in and did the work. He lead rather than ordered.
Julie and family.
I am saddened by the news of Neil’s passing and extend to you my condolences with wishes for peace and comfort at this time. Neil swill be remembered as a brother officer, friend and colleague. I am proud to have worn the badge of The Fort Garry Horse with him. May he rest in peace
Digger
Like Ernie Ahrens I was in 4 Troop COTC in Borden in the early 60s and like Tim Fletcher I served with Neil later at HQ Hamilton Militia District. Neil was quite simple outstanding in every way: an outstanding soldier, an outstanding leader and an outstanding human being
Hi Julie I worked with you and Neil at HMD. I was a clerk there and served under him. I cannot recall a time when he ever raised his voice. A good officer and great gentleman. Sorry for your loss
Hi Julie We are so sorry to hear about Neil, Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Your next door neighbours in Tillsonburg