It is with heartfelt sadness, the family of Ronald David Neeve, long-time resident of Nanaimo, BC, aged 84 years old, announce his peaceful passing on January 8, 2021.He was dearly loved by all his family and the loss is deeply felt by his sons Robert (Margo) and Barry (Debbie), as well as his grandchildren Andrea and David, step grandchildren Kyle and Rachelle. Also left behind are his sister Marnie (John), sisters-in-law Deanna (Fred), Pat (George), Michelle (George), Ida (Rodrigue), Monique (Bertrand), brother-in-law Robert (Ruth), many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his loving wife of 54 years Nicole Marie (nee Vandal) April 2013, his parents William George and Iris Rose (nee Morrison) and brothers Fred and George. Ron spent 36 years as an Officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force. As an Air Interceptor Navigator flying the CF 101 Voodoo, he enjoyed various postings across Canada and the USA. At the height of the Cold War he and his pilot were the first Canadians to intercept a Russian Bear Bomber over Canadian airspace. In 1977, while In Colorado Springs, CO, as the Canadian Liaison Officer for the Distant Early Warning Line, he was awarded the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal.
After retiring from the Air Force in 1991, he and Nicole settled in Nanaimo, BC, the province where he was born as a first generation Canadian in Kimberley. Enjoying his life at Nanaimo Seniors Village Ron walked 6km every day until he became ill mid October, but being the trooper that he was he never complained and always looked forward to a new day. He was a delightful, calm, loving man and a true gentleman as everyone who knew him always commented. His passing will leave a huge gap and we are truly blessed to have been a part of his life. Memories of his kind and loving spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
In keeping with his desires and in view of the Covid protocols, there will be no visitation or formal service. His ashes will be scattered as per his request at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada or the Canadian Cancer Society.
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