It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Neil John Gourlie on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2006 after a very courageous battle with cancer.
Neil was born Oct. 2, 1944 in Trail, B.C., to Lloyd and Johanna Gourlie. He resided in Trail until becoming a member of the PPCLI in 1961 and was first stationed in Victoria where he met his bride of 43 years, Marrion Patricia Oldnall.
Neil was posted in various cities oversees and across Canada including Trenton, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Victoria and Chilliwack where he retired from the military in 1981. Within those years Neil and Marrion had three beautiful children, David, Cheryl and Bryan.
Neil furthered his career working for his country at Canada Customs were he worked with great pride and integrity for the next 24 years. He was well-respected by all his peers and was considered a mentor to many at Customs. He had his final retirement in October, 2004.
Neil enjoyed a good hockey game and was always proud to watch his sons on the ice. He will be remembered for being an avid golfer enjoying many rounds at Royalwood as a member as well as many at the “19th” hole with his friends.
Neil is predeceased by his father, Lloyd, mother, Johanna and cousin, Don Forbes. He is survived by his wife Marrion, brothers Jim (Colleen), Bryan (Delores), Ian (Holly), sisters Karen (Al), and Gale (Wayne), his son David (Kristen), daughter Cheryl (Rudy), and son Bryan (Angie) as well as grandchildren, Kennda, Rudy Jr., Mairin, Meagan, Taylor and Landen.
Dad, you will be remembered as a strong, hardworking and courageous man. You may be gone, but you will always be in our hearts.
We would like to give a sincere thank you to Dr. Mark Mackenzie; Dad respected you a great deal and we thank you for your time and compassion. As well as Dr. Toze and other Doctors and the many registered nurses at B4 and T15 at Vancouver General Hospital. Thank you also to the nurses who cared for Dad in his final days in the Respite room in Bradley Centre.
In memory of Neil, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
“GONE GOLFING”