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DANIEL JOSEPH MACNEIL Obituary pic

DANIEL JOSEPH MACNEIL

Born: Jun 30, 1936

Date of Passing: Apr 06, 2013

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DANIEL JOSEPH MACNEIL With his daughter looking after him and his family ever loving him, Dan left this world to join the good Lord in heaven on April 6, 2013. He was a deeply good and loving man, and we the following will continue to remember him and be grateful for all that he gave and taught us: his children Neil (Barb), Barry (Carmelle), Theresa (Keith) and daughter-in-law Lorraine; his beloved grandchildren and great-grand-children (both original and adopted) and their loved ones; all of the MacNeil and Olson families; and all of his friends, colleagues and students. Going on before him were his wife and the love of his life, Hope; his youngest son Blair; his parents, Neil and Mary MacNeil; his brothers and many other family and friends who will be rejoicing with him now. Dan was born June 30, 1936 and grew up on Cape Breton Island, the oldest of 10 children in a coal miner's family, where he learned how to love and to enjoy life, and the value of hard work. He graduated from St. Francis Xavier University in 1957, and never stopped learning or believing in education. He came to Manitoba and taught in Lundar for two years (where Hope chased and caught him!), then was principal in Inwood in the early 1960s, and principal in Fisher Branch from 1967 to 1982. During the last nine years of his career, until 1991, he served as superintendent of Lakeshore School Division (he was named a lifetime member of the Manitoba Association of School Superintendents). Dan was a natural leader, serving as the first Grand Knight of the Fisher Branch Knights of Columbus, and District Deputy of District #6 of the K of C in Manitoba. He was a president and executive member of the Lakeshore Teachers' Association. Dan was the chairperson of the Fisher Branch Medical Clinic for many years, and a member of the Fisher Branch Personal Care Home Committee that saw the home opened in June of 1999. In all of this, and the many other commitments he made at work and in his community, he was completely dedicated to all he undertook. Dan's friends, his colleagues and all of the students he came into contact with will testify to his inherent dignity, rigorous honesty, his formidable intellect, leadership and caring. Dan's family can tell how he loved all of us. Dan and Hope were never wealthy, but they were always rich in giving. Their hearts and their home were open to all, always, with food on the table (and a good stiff drink in hand!), money if it was needed, a bed for a night or a year, and candy and coins in Dan's pockets for any kids who would take it. Family was cherished, always at the centre of their lives (with God; they went hand in hand). Even as Huntington's Disease took its toll, he remained "him"; he lit up at family, was at peace with prayer, and always looked for a way to be hospitable and generous (and thank you, Betel staff, on his behalf). Dad, Grampa, Pa, Uncle Dan, he was always there for us, and he always will be. A prayer vigil will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 10 at Immaculate Conception Parish in Fisher Branch. The funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 11, again at Immaculate Conception, with a lunch reception afterward at the Centennial Hall in Fisher Branch. Interment at Immaculate Conception Cemetery will follow this reception. The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, kind wishes and remembrances. We look forward to that wonderful day when we'll all be reunited. God bless you all. FISHER FUNERAL HOME INC. In care of arrangements. Fisher Branch, MB 204-372-6271 or 204-372-6803

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 09, 2013

Condolences & Memories (29 entries)

  • Our most sincere condolences to you and your families upon the loss of your father. We just heard the news today. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: Jules and RoseLynn Poiron (COUSIN TO BARRY AND CARMELLE) on: Apr 17, 2013

  • Barry and Carmelle, Our deepest sympathies to you and your family upon the loss of your dad. We just heard the news. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: BARRY AND CARMELLE (COUSIN TO BARRY AND CARMELLE) on: Apr 17, 2013

  • To Family of Dan MacNeil: Though we are complete strangers to you, we had the pleasure of meeting your parents some years ago. Vaughnie & Jude had spoken highly of both, and we immediately felt the same, as we shared a supper in Larry's River. Met your Dad again @ Justin's funeral in 2004. I believe his journey with Huntington's was beginning at that time. He showed shear determination in being there for family. We are very sorry for your loss, but nice to know he left you with such cherished memories. God Bless - Posted by: Roma/Byron(Sonny) Kennedy (Jude Avery's sister) on: Apr 16, 2013

  • My sincere condolences to the MacNeil family on the loss of Dan. I have known the family for many years and Dan and Hope were wonderful caring people that opened there heart and house to everyone. They will be missed by all who knew them. Just know that mom and dad are now back together and laughing and eating dinner together at the kitchen table. Hold all of there memories close to your hearts as they were one of a kind. God bless. Michelle Hazelton and family - Posted by: michelle hazelton(Brocker) (friend) on: Apr 15, 2013

  • It is with a heavy heart that I send my condolences on the passing of another brick in the foundation of our dear family. Uncle Dan, despite the miles that separated us, had a profound impact on the adult and educator I have become. He was a truly selfless and loving individual whose strong Catholic faith buoyed him as he faced many struggles and tragedies. I carry this with me as life hands me challenges and hope that I can face them with the same dignity and unwavering faith. Until we meet again my dear uncle. XO Wih much love, Nicole, Chris, Evan and Haydn XO - Posted by: Nicole Bell (Niece) on: Apr 14, 2013

  • My sincere condolences to the family of Mr. McNeil. I remember Mr. McNeil as a kind, friendly man when I was 12 year old kid at Fisher Branch in the late '60's. what a gentleman, may he rest in peace. - Posted by: Harriet Yarmill (Former student) on: Apr 13, 2013

  • Our sincere condolances and prayers to the MacNeil family on the loss of your father. God Bless you Theresa for your loving care to him during his illness. Our children Shauna,Carla and Ivan will always have great memories of Mr.MacNeil as their principal and teacher at Fisher Branch Collegiate! Sincerely, John & Arleen Klassen and Family Sincerely... - Posted by: John and Arleen Klassen () on: Apr 13, 2013

  • Just wanted you to know you are very much in our thoughts and prayers. We suspect there are some very happy people in heaven right now! For sure your Mom welcomed your Dad with a broad grin, a big hug and lots of devilment! It would certainly be interesting to have a tally of how much money he lost in the coin toss game he played with every child he encountered! Such great memories of both of your parents! Wish we were there to offer a hug in person. xoxoxo - Posted by: Curtis, Glenna and Garrett MacNeil (Nephew) on: Apr 12, 2013

  • My sincere condolences to the MacNeil family. Your dad was such a kind man and a wonderful principal. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. RIP Mr. MacNeil. - Posted by: Lenore Proulx ( Fjeldsted ) ( Former Student of Fisher Branch) on: Apr 11, 2013

  • Sincere condolences to the MacNeil family. Mr MacNeil is fondly remembered for his relentless, untiring, but gentle efforts to help his students. He even had classes on Saturdays for students that needed help. I am forever grateful to him and his wife, Hope, who took personal holiday time in July and August to provide French instruction to me. Great teacher, terrific man. - Posted by: Barrie Carman (Former student at Inwood.) on: Apr 11, 2013

  • Sincere condolences to you Theresa, Keith and family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. - Posted by: Harvey & Ada Vandersteen (friends of family) on: Apr 10, 2013

  • Barry, Neil, Theresa and families, I am sending my condolences, prayers and hugs to each of you. I carry the warmest of memories of our visit soooo many years ago to Fisher Branch, but Uncle Danny's brilliant smile is tops and will remain with me forever. I wish I could be with you all to honour such a great man. Love, Nadine and family - Posted by: Nadine (Avery), Jeffrey, Emma Jane and Lauren Penston () on: Apr 10, 2013

  • My sincere condolences to the MacNeil family. Your dad was such a kind man and a wonderful principal. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. RIP Mr. MacNeil. - Posted by: Anita Armstrong (nee Meilleur) (Former Student) on: Apr 10, 2013

  • Im so sorry to hear that he has passed away our condolences to the family. He was very good to me when i was in school it seemed i was always waiting to see him and it wasn't just a visit, one of the teachers sent me there. all the best to the family, Dave - Posted by: David Wowchuk (Student at the Fisher Branch High School) on: Apr 10, 2013

  • Condolences to all for the loss you have suffered. In my mind's eye, I can still see Mr. M. standing at the end of the hallway, next to the office, ensuring everyone was getting to their classes after the bell rang :). That tells me that he will continue to watch over his loved ones, forever. May warm, wonderful memories soon fade your sadness. Sincerely, Bev. - Posted by: Bev MacGillivray (nee Boyd) (former student) on: Apr 10, 2013

  • Our deepest sympathies to Barry, Theresa, Neil and families. Your extended family in Cape Breton have you in our thoughts and prayers..xoxoxo - Posted by: Shawn and Marilyn MacDougall (Nephew) on: Apr 10, 2013

  • My heartfelt condolences to Barry, Theresa, Neil and families. Thinking of you all during this difficult time. You were his richest treasures followed by his numerous photo albums of the memories you created together. I am sure he and Hope are reunited and watching over you now. Thoughts and prayers with you all xoxo - Posted by: Neala MacDougall (Niece) on: Apr 10, 2013

  • My sincere condolences to the McNeil family in this time of great sorrow. I was one of Mr McNeil's students that admired and was influenced by his kindness and fairness. I consider myself fortunate to have our paths cross. He will be missed by many. - Posted by: Roland Desjardins (family friend & former student) on: Apr 10, 2013

  • Barry, Neil & Theresa, Our deepest condolences to each of you and your families. Your Cape Breton cousins are thinking of you. We wish we could be there to say Good-bye. I'll always have fond memories of Uncle Danny and his pocket of change :) - Posted by: Melissa & David Deane (Neice) on: Apr 10, 2013

  • To all of Dan and Hope's family: Thanking God for your Dad's life and thinking of you all during this difficult time. - Posted by: Nick and Rose Plett (neighbors) on: Apr 09, 2013

  • Condolences to the MacNeil family on the loss of a truly wonderful man. I will always have many great memories of the person so fondly described in this obituary. Rest in peace Mr. MacNeil. - Posted by: Claudette Craig (nee Meilleur) (Family friend and former student) on: Apr 09, 2013

  • Condolences to the family. What a kind and gentle man he was. Fondly remember our boxing day snowmobile trips there for food and drinks. RIP Mr. MacNeil - Posted by: Lucy Blahey (former student) on: Apr 09, 2013

  • My sincere sympathies to the MacNeil family. Dan and Hope were dear friends with my parents, Roger and Eva Bernier and he was my principal and teacher in Fisher Branch long ago. This obituary reminded me of the wonderful attributes of this loving gentle man. - Posted by: Laurette Truszynski () on: Apr 09, 2013

  • Sincerest condolences to all family members on the loss of your father, grandfather. The well written obituary captured the true essence of who Dan was. Many fond professional & personal memories for us to cherish. Henry & Iris Kolada - Posted by: Henry Kolada (friend, former colleague) on: Apr 09, 2013

  • My sincere sympathies to the family. God rest his gentle soul. Mr. MacNeil was my principal and teacher in Fisher Branch. He was one of the kindest people I knew. He always had a big smile on his face...I will always remember him for his gentle disposition. His memory will live on. I'm sure Hope will be overjoyed to be with him again. - Posted by: Cindy Anderson (Family friend & former student.) on: Apr 09, 2013

  • Our condolences to Theresa and her family with the passing of your father. - Posted by: Susan Rosolowich Homeniuk (Theresa taught catechism a long time ago to us in our community ) on: Apr 09, 2013

  • Condolences to the MacNeil Family in your loss. Mr. MacNeil will be remembered by many for a long long time. Thoughts and prayers are with you all. - Posted by: Myrna (Malenchak) Zeaton (Family Friend) on: Apr 09, 2013

  • Our heartfelt sympathies to all the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of great loss. - Posted by: Henry and Eveline Caners (friend) on: Apr 09, 2013

  • I sorry we had sad, I heard, good friend I like hockey game Wpg Jets MacNeil family Thank you - Posted by: Danny Klus (friends ) on: Apr 09, 2013

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