NEIL BRIAN GOTTFRED

Condolences & Memories (7 entries)

• I first met Neil many years ago when I became a Basketball referee; we even reffed together on occasion. We remained connected in the Basketball community as he often officiated my senior women's games on Sundays. It was always a bright-spot in my day to walk up to our game court and see that Neil was our ref. We shared a lot of banter back and forth, both on and off the court. I am truly saddened to hear of his passing and would like to extend my condolences to Neil's family and friends, and anyone who was lucky enough to know him. Rest in peace, Neil. - Posted by: Brandy McKay (Friend through Basketball) on: Mar 23, 2023

• I have been Neil's next door neighbour for the last four years. He was always cheerful, kind, and good-spirited when we met coming and going and had our chats. My condolences to his family, our condo community will miss him. - Posted by: Donna Youngdahl (Neighbour) on: Feb 01, 2023

• First met Neil way back in the late 70’s when we became teammates playing for the Fort Garry Lions. Neil was an older player who took me under his wing and taught me the finer points of not only football but life. When Neil graduated he donated his time to coach where I continued to learn from him. After football we continued as team mates playing touch football and baseball with the University of Fun. An appropriate name for a guy who enjoyed life to the fullest. Will be missed by many and everyone whose life he touched. - Posted by: John Popplestone (Friend) on: Jan 28, 2023

• Had a lot of laughs on the curling tour with Neil (I called him fish). Sorry to hear of his passing - Posted by: Dean Duguid (curling team member) on: Jan 24, 2023

• I am a player on team Sneakers, one of the teams of the Winnipeg Women's Basketball League. Neil was one of our favourite refs - he always took the time to talk to us, joke with us, and encourage us to do our best and win a game. I also watched him ref my son's basketball teams and appreciated how he sometimes took time to explain the 'why' of a whistle to the boys who thought they knew more than the ref. He was very fair when reffing and we will miss him on the court! - Posted by: Anita Blaquiere (WWBL Player) on: Jan 22, 2023

• Very sad to hear of the big fella’s passing!!😔,,had many good times with him around golf and curling and friendship!! Many 😂😂😂were had!! Good man,,,he cared!! To Mike and the family,I send ❤️felt condolences,,I will always have good memories of my time with Neil!!,,RIP my man✌️,,cheers🥃,,,,,DC - Posted by: Daryl Currie (Friend) on: Jan 22, 2023

• Neil was a very interesting friend, his ability to sing and enjoy meeting with the Uncles of "The Knights of Wendaze" will remembered by those who knew Neil. Will keep you in my memories forever. - Posted by: Don Baird (Friend) on: Jan 22, 2023