Obituary

M. Neil McCannell was born in Orangeville Hospital and taken home to the family farm, where he learned to love agriculture. He was a Holstein Breeder for 50 years. His life started on the farm (Hilltop Heights) and ended on the farm, now Headwaters Health Care Centre, on Saturday October 22, 2022 at the age of 76. Beloved husband and best friend of Ruby J (Houston) 54.5 years. Dear son of Pauline and Kenneth (2013) McCannell. Loved father of Paul (Stephanie), Cheryel (Kevin), Rob (Missy). Cherished Poppa to Ashley Harvey, Ryan Harvey, Michael McCannell, and Lauren McCannell.  Remembered by Siblings Donna Dale Jones (Rev Doug), Mark McCannell (Tracy). Fondly remembered by Brother-in laws John Houston, Bruce Houston (Deb), Sister-in laws Hilda VanCamp (Dana), Wanda Robinson (Greg) He will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends. Neil was proud of Orangeview Holsteins, showing cattle at local fairs for many years. He was proud of the international breeders that wanted his cattle. He was bursting with pride when one of his heifers went All Canadian. Neil spent 37 years as a dairy 4-H leader. He got great joy teaching young people how to groom and show cattle. Neil spent many hours at the Orangeville Curling Club. He was a past president. He was an avid curler, enjoying the interclub and the Thursday morning jitney and comradery. Neil always enjoyed the Euchre games after curling. During the warmer weather you could find him throwing horseshoes. Neil built and pit so he and Ruby could play in the evenings. Neil was a long-time member and past president of the Orangeville Lions Club. His greatest joy was watching his four grandchildren no matter what they were doing, showing their 4-H calves, hockey, soccer, or lacrosse. Being on oxygen did not stop him from taking a trip to British Columbia to watch his grandson’s Northman Lacrosse team win the Minto Cup. A Celebration of life will take place at the In Memoriam Services Inc., 28 Main Street, North Grand Valley, Ontario on Sunday, November 27, 2022, from 1pm – 3pm. In lieu of flowers memorial donation may be made to Westminster United Church, Ontario Lung Association or Charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.imfunerals.com. In Memoriam Funeral Services Inc. has been given the honour to serve the McCannell Family.