Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at 11:00 a.m.
McDonald, Neil
NEIL MATHESON MCDONALD passed away peacefully in Lethbridge on April 6, 2018 at the age of 85 years.
NEIL MATHESON MCDONALD passed away peacefully in Lethbridge on April 6, 2018 at the age of 85 years.
Neil was born September 16, 1932 to Mr. & Mrs. J.M. McDonald in Eckville, AB where he grew up. He had an interesting and adventurous life that took him from working in a creamery in Alberta, to drilling for salt in Windsor, ON, and then to drilling for oil both in Canada and in the Arabian Sea in the 1960s. During his time working in the Middle East he traveled extensively to places ranging from England to Japan. He returned to Canada and completed his education at Horticultural College in Olds, AB. He then settled into a career as a Fruit and Vegetable Inspector for the Federal Government which moved him from Edmonton to Lethbridge. However, he still had other interests on the side, including being part owner of a hotel/bar.
Neil married Darlene in 1975 and had an instant family with her children Dean and Danni. Neil and Darlene were avid square dancers until Multiple Sclerosis took Darlene's mobility. Neil was a very good step-father and introduced his new children to many things ranging from skiing and travelling to playing bridge. Sadly, Darlene passed away in 1997.
After Darlene's passing, Neil's passion for playing duplicate bridge grew and he would play several times a week continuing up until his recent health problems a few months ago. Neil accomplished the challenging goal of becoming a Bridge Life Master. Going to coffee with him often meant replaying some of the hands of bridge he had played the night before after first catching up on the latest news about all his "kin-folk".
Neil met Loretta Schwartzenberger and they have been companions for the past several years. They were able to do some traveling and enjoy life. Loretta's family was always very good to Neil and included him in all of their activities.
Neil is survived by Loretta Schwartzenberger, step-children, Dean (Bev) Gallimore, and Danni (Pete) Bendkowski, grandchildren Lauren Gallimore, Amanda Gallimore and Luke Bendkowski and sister Margaret Ferguson along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. Neil was predeceased by his wife Darlene, sister Phyllis Andrews and brothers Donald and Ewart McDonald.
A Funeral Service will be held at ST. ANDREW'S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 1818 - 5 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB on Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Hugh Jack officiating. A Reception for family and friends will follow in the Church Hall.
In lieu of flowers and in memory of Neil, please feel free to make a donation to a charity of your choice.
Guestbook (9)
Share a memory or send a tribute in memory of Neil.
I was very sad to hear of Neil's passing. He was a good friend and classmate to those of us in the Horticulture class of 1967-69. At one stage he kindly offered financial help to a couple of us. We didn't need to take it, but his kindness in offering has never been forgotten. I had hoped to catch up with him next summer for our 50th Reunion, but I guess that won't happen. We will just have to remember him with fondness. Sincere sympathy to all of his family.
A tribute to Neil Mcdonald. He was a great bridge player. He was always a gentleman at the table. He never said a negative thing about anyone. He was always interested in people and their lives. He had a very good memory not just in cards but in people and their circumstances. He always noticed examples of kindness and respect, or lack thereof. He had a very witty sence of humor. Example. When I had a good trick in my hand and didn't play it. Instead of giving me heck he would say " oh that's ok I guess you were just saving that one". He never got mad. He also loved to travel to bridge tournaments. I remember going to Shelbyville Montana. Besides the great bridge and good friends he'd reunite with he enjoyed the amazing prime rib dinner. Money. He worked hard for his money and so he didn't waste it. The only luxury he had was driving his brand new shiney car. He dressed conservatively and would be sure to get his senior discounts. He was a $1 Mcdonald s coffee person, not a $10 cafe mocha second cup person. He was a great friend. I will miss him. Love Linda Martin
To Danni and all of the McDonald/Gallimore family I'm very sorry to hear of your dad. I remember him and your mom as kind, generous people who always received visitors as friends. Hugs from Gord & Rose.
Your chatty nature and your stories will be greatly missed, Neil. Thanks for being the grandpa I never had. RIP.
Loretta, You and Uncle Neil were such good companions, he was so blessed to have you and your family be a big part in his life! He was very grateful for that and spoke often of you all. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you during this sad time.
My best friend for more than 50 years, we shared a lot, a great guy. I will think of him often. His passing was a shock to me and will leave a huge gap in my life. I know Neil as a generous and sharing man who had maitained a huge circle of friends and relatives. All will miss his connections, his stories and his humor.
Our condolences go out to you Dean, Danni and your families. What a nice obituary you wrote for Uncle Neil, he was so proud of you all. We are grateful for the opportunity to have visited him frequently at the hospital.
Dear Dean and Bev, Neil's company was thoroughly enjoyed at the bridge table; he was keen about the game but always very complimentary to his opponents - a true gentleman. He was so proud of you two and your daughters - his buttons were near bursting when he told me about your activities. With my admiration and affection, Linda Flaman
Dear Loretta we are so very sorry for your loss our prayers and thoughts are with you Neil was a dear kind man and a great story teller we so enjoyed hearing all of his adventures and missed him and you this last merry thanksgiving! Both of your kindness and laughter and love that you shared will shine on forever!! Big hugs and kisses from all of us