Murray Grant McNeil   
May 1952 - October 2021

Murray’s family is heartbroken to announce that he passed away after a long struggle with vascular dementia, related to a heart attack he suffered in 2013. He was a resident at Eden Gardens for the last four years, where he was lovingly supported by his caregivers.

Murray was born and raised in Powell River, then moved to Vancouver to join his highschool sweetheart, Jennifer (Thompson). His growing career in management brought them to Victoria, and then to Nanaimo where they raised their two children. Over their 48-year marriage, they spent many summer vacations at their oceanfront cabin near Lund, with family and friends who visited from near and far.  

Murray truly loved the outdoors, and animals. He was an avid reader, trickster, trivia buff, and brilliant marksman. He loved cooking, wine making, playing cards, dancing, rock concerts, and tropical vacations. Murray served many years on the executive at the Italian Club in Nanaimo, and was captain of its bowling team.  

Murray cherished his family and was dedicated to keeping them safe. They will love him and miss him forever.

Murray is predeceased by his parents Wilton and Rita, and his sister Ellen. Surviving to mourn are his wife Jennifer, children Stephanie (Rick) and Grant (Lauren), and grandchildren Natalie and Jane. Also surviving Murray are his sister Karen, brother-in-law Michael (Sherry), his mother-in-law Dolores, sisters-in-law Cindy (John) and Cheryl (Hal), and many nieces and nephews and their children. Murray’s 60-year friendship with Bob, Merrill, John, Harvey, and Wayne endured through regular reunions over music and beer.

Celebration of Life will be held in spring 2022 by the seaside with those closest to Murray.  Flowers gratefully declined. Donations to Eden Gardens in Murray’s name would be most appreciated (1917 Northfield Road, Nanaimo). 

Snuggle your dogs and whisper that Murr would have loved them.

 

Lives Cherished and Celebrated