September 10, 1961 – February 26, 2024
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Brian Neill. Brian returned to Mexico in mid- October, 2023 and, shortly after that, was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The tumor was benign, yet life threatening. It was successfully removed in November, 2023 and his recovery was going well until he contracted bacterial meningitis. He fought like hell and was able to overcome the infection, though the battle left him very weak and, on Monday, February 26, 2024, his body could no longer endure the trauma and he suffered a fatal heart attack. His loving partner, Tracy Frederickson, was by his side when he passed. Brian was 62.
Brian was born on September 10, 1961 in Montreal, Quebec, and spent the first 30 years of his life in Eastern Canada, where he worked in the Food & Beverage industry. Brian was a talented carpenter and, given the opportunity to wield his hammer, he moved West to Calgary, Alberta, where he restored historical buildings in the downtown core. One of his proudest accomplishments was renovating the #3 Firehall in Inglewood into the Hose & Hydrant Pub, now known as the Hose & Hound Neighborhood Pub. When Brian retired in 2012, he sold his house and bought his beloved sailboat Woodwind 1. It was his lifelong dream to live aboard and abroad.
Brian spent the last 11 winters living on his boat in Paradise Village Marina in Nuevo Vallarta, MX. He always had projects on the go, whether it be replacing canvas, making repairs to the boat, or helping fellow cruisers. Many a Happy Hour were spent with friends at Hector’s Beach Bar. On Sundays, Brian would take his Honda Goldwing motorcycle, nicknamed Goldmember, for a spin up the coast. His faithful dog, Zoey, was constantly by his side and would sit in the saddlebag of the Goldwing, causing many a head to turn.
Brian called British Columbia home in the summer, yet he was actually a resident of the world. The last 6 summers he resided in RVs, either living off the grid near Panorama Mountain Village, BC, or traveling across Canada. Brian loved driving and was right at home behind the wheel of his motorhome. During a cross Canada trip in the summer of 2023, he was able to reconnect with many of his family and friends. Brian got an adrenaline rush racing go-carts and riding his electric dirt bike, and he had aspirations of driving a Formula 1 car. He was excitedly planning to attend the Mexico City Grand Prix in October, 2024.
Brian is predeceased by his mother Nicole Neill, his Uncle Alec Neill, his Uncle Neill Neill and, the light of his life, his dog Zoey, who passed away while Brian was fighting for his own life. Brian had forgotten Zoey was gone and often thought she was in his hospital bed with him.
Brian is survived by spouse Tracy Frederickson, sister Sandra Neill, her son Landen, his Auntie Lee Neill, stepfather David Neill and his other puppy Puddle.
Rest in peace, Brian, and know that you will eternally be loved.
There will be a celebration for The Life of Brian on Sunday, May 05, 2024 in Calgary. If you would like to attend, please visit brianneill.brownpapertickets.com, register, and select the number of tickets. Registration deadline is April 21, 2024.
