GARNETT ADAM NEILSON

Peacefully on Friday, Dec. 26, 2008, Garnett Adam Neilson of Rainycrest in Fort Frances, Ont. passed away with Vivian, his wife of 62 years, at his side.
Garnett was born Jan. 29, 1926 on the Neilson homestead in Sifton Township. He grew up there hunting and fishing and contributing to the family livelihood; as well as learning the ethics of hard work, honesty, and self-reliance—values that he carried with him for the rest of his life.
As soon as he was old enough, he joined the army and was about to embark for Europe when WWII ended. He had been eager to serve his country and was disappointed that he had missed that opportunity to contribute to the war effort.
On Sept. 25, 1946, Garnett married Vivian Berg and they purchased their farm in Pattullo Township, where they worked together raising beef cattle. In winter he worked in the bush.
Daddy was strong, both of character and in body. He was thorough in all things and loved the outdoors. These things made him an ideal role model for his seven children.
He was happiest when working, and had many ways of making everyday work more enjoyable using his playful sense of humour.
Throughout his life, moose hunting trips and fishing with his brothers was always a highlight. Snowmobiling and square dancing also were important social activities for Garnett and Vivian.
When they sold the farm in 1988, they moved “down to the river” east of Pinewood where, from their own lumber, they built and furnished their retirement home.
Garnett took great pride in his weed-free garden, especially his grapes, which he propagated and freely distributed far and wide. He was innovative, resourceful, and skilled with his hands.
He also loved collecting all manner of things. His collections included coins, artifacts, rocks, fishing rods, and many other items.
In 2004, when failing health made it difficult to maintain the river property, Garnett and Vivian moved to Fort Frances. In town, they took computer courses and he filled his days playing checkers online or Crokinole with his family and other visitors.
Since the autumn of 2007, he required continuous care.
Garnett was predeceased by his parent,s Maurice and Stella (Bowman) Neilson; son, Ron Neilson; brothers, Art and Carman Neilson; sister, Bernice Sisco; and brothers-in-law, Bob Kivi, Paul Sisco, and Walter Hansen.
Garnett will be sadly missed by his wife, Vivian; and children, Linda (Bill) Fadden of Kenora Ont., Rick (Linda) Neilson of Stratton, Ont., Candy (Mel) Olson of Nestor Falls, Ont., Betty (Wayne) Salchert of Devlin, Ont., Laurie Spanninga of Emo, Ont., and Faye (Kelvin) Flatt of Devlin, Ont.
Also surviving are his brothers and sisters, William (Marjorie) and Keith (Grace) Neilson, Thelma Hansen, and Dixie Kivi; sisters-in-law, Katherine Neilson and Louise Neilson; and brother-in-law, Dennis Armstrong.
Garnett also leaves behind 14 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and a great many nieces and nephews.
Cremation has taken place.
A memorial service to celebrate Garnett’s life was held Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008 at 11 a.m. at Knox United Church in Fort Frances, with Rev. Barb Miller officiating.
The honourary pallbearers were his grandchildren.
Interment will take place at Pine Ridge Cemetery in North Branch, Ont. at a later date.
Should family and friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, in memoriam donations may be made to the Alzheimers Society of the Rainy River/Kenora District or the charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be offered at www.mem.com