Neil McCALLUM

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McCALLUM: W. Neil died in Hamiota of cancer on May 24, 2009. He was born in Hamiota on June 6, 1926 to Violet (Leif) and Lorne McCallum. Growing up on a farm near Oakner, Neil enjoyed a happy childhood with his brother and sisters. In the fall of 1942 the farm was sold and the family purchased a café in Oak River. In February of 1944, what would become McCallum’s Garage and later McCallum Services Ltd. was purchased. Neil took most of his schooling in Oakner and finished it in Oak River where he completed his grade 12. Neil turned 18 on D-Day (the invasion of Europe). A short time later he joined the Navy where he remained until he was discharged in 1946 after the end of the Second World War. During the war his brother Malcolm, a navigator flying with a British crew, was shot down in waters off of Denmark, a loss that Neil felt throughout his life. Neil returned after his navy discharge to join the business. He purchased the business in 1964. The business flourished through a lot of hard work and with the help of his wife Winnie and long time employee Bill Cantelon. He turned the business over to his sons Doug and Mac in 1988, but continued to work tirelessly into his 80’s. He didn’t leave the business until his health failed in August 2008. Neil is survived by his wife Winnie (nee Webb); daughter Wendy (Oliver) Morris; sons Mac(Lorraine) and Doug (Wendy); grandchildren Brett, Ryan, Tucker, Amanda, Rory, Anders; sister Shirley Fagg; his nieces and nephew. Neil had a great love of animals and is survived by his precious cat Jodi. He was predeceased by his parents Lorne and Vi, older brother Malcolm, older sister Georgie, brothers-in-law George and Jim, and many of his beloved pets. Neil enjoyed playing contract bridge in Brandon for many years. He and Winnie traveled to England to visit his sister and family. As well, they were awarded several trips as agents for Shell Oil to sunny destinations. Many hours were spent playing and chatting with his grandchildren. He loved their visits and always had a big smile for each of them, even during his illness. He did not watch much TV but wouldn’t miss a Blue Jays or Blue Bombers game. A family graveside service was held May 29. Reverend Glenna Beauchamp officiated. For those so desiring, donations in Neil’s memory may be made to The Hamiota District Health Care Foundation. P.O. Box 671, Hamiota, Manitoba. R0M 0T0. The family has many people to thank. Our many friends (most of whom are also our customers) who inquired and cared about Neil. The world class health care and health care professionals in both Brandon and Hamiota. Special thanks to Dr. David Kristjanson and Dr. Chris Breneman in Hamiota who were always there for Neil. To Dr. Noah Carpenter who performed Neil’s 8 hour surgery, and whose follow-up care was truly above and beyond what anyone could expect. We know we will never match the level of integrity, generosity, kindness, commitment, and dedication that Neil displayed, but we will be kept busy trying to come close.His joy in life were things well doneFrom early morn till set of sun.We loved him so,But God loved him bestSo he took him home with Him to rest.

As published in Brandon Sun on Jun 06, 2009