Donald Matthew NEILON

NEILON, Donald Matthew 2008-09-03 October 31st, 1937 - August 30th, 2008 As the setting sun slowly disappeared over the horizon, Dad drifted away to his final resting place in the sunset. On August 30th, 2008 Dad took his final breath as the sun was setting over his favorite place, Lake Superior”. Dad was born in Larder Lake, Ontario on October 31, 1937 and spent most of his childhood years there with his 2 brothers Raymond and Dennis. Being the son of a miner, they moved around a lot, finally settling in Buckingham Quebec. It was there that he met his high school sweetheart Helen (Macmillan), and of course the rest is history. Dad left the Canadian Air Force with an electrical technician degree and soon put it to use working in Ottawa with various industries. Dad was always aspiring to do bigger and better things. He and Mom started up a Sporting Goods Store. He ran “Don‘s Sporting Goods” for 9 years and all the time thinking about his next move. In 1972 they and their daughter Debbie, moved to Schreiber purchasing the Mayfair Hotel and started their new adventure in the Hotel business. Making new friends was easy, as Dad had the “gift of the gab” and the Schreiber people easily extended their friendship for this new family in town. Dad and Mom ran the hotel for 5 years putting in long hours and continually making new friends. The doors were always open for friends and employees alike, as Dad was always willing to offer a needed meal, shelter or just an ear. There were may occasions that included extended family for Christmas dinner, Easter and any other day of the year. Don then decided it was time for something new....”semi-retirement”. Soon boring of that a few years later, they bought the Voyageur Restaurant and Motel and operated it for 7 years. Once again, needing a much needed break, they sold the Voy in 1987. Dad was a clever businessman and had what it took to be successful. He had a passion for the outdoors. He loved to hunt and fish. He spent many hunting seasons at Dead Horse with his buddies and numerous hours on the lake fishing in the summer and ice fishing in the winter. But his true passion was his tug boat “The Kelsee Rae”, named after his only granddaughter. He spent countless hours refurbishing his tug boat. He often said he was living in paradise and it couldn‘t get any better than that. Dad had a great love for Lake Superior and jumped at any opportunity to bring a crew aboard and tour his many hot spots. We‘ll miss our days out on the lake with him....Dad had a dry sense of humor with a sarcastic wit, and was never lost for words. Vegas was one of his favorite vacations spots and he would never turn down an invitation to play cards with his buddies. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He cherished his family and was especially proud of his only granddaughter Kelsee. Don was born to Catherine McGarry and Matthew Neilon on October 31, 1937, and was pre-deceased by both in 2003 and 1985 respectively. He was also predeceased by both brothers, Dennis and Raymond. He is survived by his loving wife Helen of 49 years, his outdoor partners Debbie (daughter) and Kelsee (granddaughter), his favorite son in law John Fischer, our adopted family friend/uncle Hermen Comeau and his loyal companion Bandit, who never left his side. Also surviving is his “other” daughter Brenda and her husband Shawn. As well, his sister in laws, Sue Neilon of Ottawa, Sheila Nealon of Gatineau PQ and Stevie Nealon of Latchford Ontario. Many nieces and nephews also survive.Dad was a great friend and mentor to many, his presence will be deeply missed by all whom crossed his path. Put another worm on Dad!! Till we meet again..................A Memorial service will be held on Thursday September 4th at 11:00 AM at Holy Angels Parish, Schreiber Ontario. Luncheon will be at the Schreiber Recreation Center following the service. The family would appreciate any donations to be made to The Northern Cancer Research, The Heart and Stroke Foundation or the charity of your choice