Albert Neal Henderson, December 12, 1935 - November 12, 2021 Following a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease, Neal passed at the James Bay Care Centre in Victoria, BC, with his wife of 56 years, Elizabeth Jacqueline (nee Ormond), by his side. Neal is also survived by his son Jeff (Kerry) and daughter Kathy (Adam), and his five grandchildren Kaiya, Eden, Rose, Jonah, and Callum. He is predeceased by his brother Gordon. Neal was born and raised in Vancouver, BC. He completed his Bachelor of Education at the University of British Columbia and his Master of Science degree at the University of Oregon. He taught school in Vancouver and West Vancouver and served as a secondary school Vice Principal/Principal in Victoria, Revelstoke, and Parksville. He retired in 1994. He was a tremendous student advocate throughout his career and delighted in the achievements of former students. Throughout his life he was heavily involved in sports, playing and/or coaching rugby, golf, racquetball, basketball, baseball and soccer. He served as President of BC School Sports (1972-73) and served on the board of Sport BC. He was a member of Rotary Clubs in Revelstoke, Parksville, and Victoria. He served in Board leadership at Knox United Church in Parksville and First Metropolitan United Church in Victoria. Neal had a lifelong love of music, with especial enjoyment of opera and musical theatre. He was a talented pianist and during his retirement he played weekly until 2009 in the Oak Room at the Broadmead Lodge for Veterans. Upon retirement, he travelled with Jacquie extensively and chaired the Pacific Shores Owners' Association for over 20 years. Following Neal's Alzheimer's diagnosis in 2009, he and Jacquie sought the support of the Victoria Alzheimer's Association and cherish the friendships and connections made during the years they attended the weekly sessions of the "Arts and Alzheimer's" support group. Neal spent the final 5 1/2 years of his life as a resident of the James Bay Care Centre where he was able to make new friends and family and staff were able to provide the loving support and expertise that he needed. Neal will be greatly missed by his family and wide circle of friends. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer's Society of BC (Research). A celebration of life will be held at First Metropolitan United Church at 932 Balmoral Road in Victoria on Saturday, December 11 at 2 pm. Those unable to attend in person may attend virtually at https://www.firstmetvictoria.com/pages/live-stream. Condolences to the family may be made at: www.dignitymemorial.com
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