Howard H.G. MacNeil

We regret to announce the passing of Howard “Howie” Gerard MacNeil on September 2, 2013 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital in Sydney at the age of 82. Howard passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Sydney, the son of the late John and Jane ( MacLean) MacNeil.

He married his wife Margaret of 58 years in 1955 and lived in Sydney for many years and then retired to Big Pond. Howard was a Sydney business man, mechanic by trade, opening his truck repair business, H.G. MacNeil over 40 years ago. Howie loved to go dancing with his beautiful wife Margie and they were often told they were the most beautiful dancers on the dance floor. Howie and Margie loved to go driving with their friends, Billy and Lorraine, driving all over Cape Breton enjoying the beauty of the island. Howie spent lots of time skating when he wasn’t fixing and repairing trucks and engines. He loved his home in Big Pond where he enjoyed with his wife Margie the peacefulness of the Bras D’or Lakes; swimming and sailing with his children and grandchildren. Howie enjoyed the simple most important things in life. He and Margie were active members of St. Mary’s parish, Big Pond.

He is survived by his wife Margaret, son Tommy MacNeil (Brenda), Sydney Forks; daughter Ann Marie Currie (Mike), Ben Eoin; sister Jessie MacNeil (John, deceased), Sydney; brothers Leo MacNeil (Margaret), Sydney; Alfie MacNeil ( Diana), Sydney; grandchildren John Michael Currie (Alicia), James Currie (Morag), Kayla Currie, Mitchell MacNeil, Daniel MacNeil and great grandchildren, Nathan Currie and Abby Currie along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by in laws Billy and Lorraine, Reserve and Rosie MacMullin, Glace Bay and his best friend Lorne MacIntyre, Sydney.

He was predeceased by his brother Roy MacNeil, brothers-in-law John MacNeil, Danny MacMullin, Tommy (Regina) MacMullin and Ritchie MacIntyre.

Visitation for the late Howard MacNeil will take place at T.W.Curry Parkview Chapel on Thursday September 5 from 2-4 & 7-9 pm. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11 am St. Mary’s Church, Big Pond on Friday with Rev. Joe Gillis officiating. Burial at Big Pond Cemetery to follow and reception at the Fire Hall, Big Pond after the service.

Donations can be made to An Cala unit at C.B. Regional Hospital. Online condolences to www.twcurry.com