Obituary of John Hutchison Neill

NEILL, John Hutchison- Passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family on Friday September 3, 2010 in his 77th year. Beloved husband of Betty for over 52 years. Loving dad of Elaine Bilkszto, Sharon (Terry) Melnyk and David (Tanya) Neill. Adored Papa to Cody, Erin, Jason, Zachary, Katelyn and Caleb. Cherished brother of Isobel and Jenny of Scotland. John will be fondly remembered by his many friends and extended family. John was born in the village of Colinton and raised in the village of Juniper Green, Scotland. He learned to play the bagpipes at a young age. After school he took an apprenticeship with a local electrician, a job he did all of his life. His main passion was skydiving, joining the 15th British Parachute Regiment to fulfil his dream. This passion took him to Canada as he became a Saskatchewan Smoke Jumper in the mid 1950's. In later years he continued with the sport of skydiving, becoming a founding member of the St. Catharines Parachute Club. " BLUE SKIES DAD " Cremation has taken place. Family and friends will be received at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL CHAPEL, 585 Carlton Street on Friday September 10 from 10 until 11:45 a.m. A celebration of John's life will be held in the chapel at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations made to the Princess Margaret Hospital Head & Neck Clinic or Toronto General Hospital Transplant Unit would be appreciated by his family.