KEITH BERNARD NEILSON

Keith Bernard Neilson, 84, of Stratton, Ont., peacefully passed away at home, with family by his side, on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014.
Keith was a private man who loved his family.
He was born Sept. 10, 1930 to Niels Maurice and Stella (Bowman) Neilson on the farm homesteaded by his parents.
He was united in marriage to Grace Hyatt on April 20, 1956. They raised their family on the Neilson family farm, where Keith remained until his passing.
Dad was an honest, fair person who gained the trust and respect of many. His ability to solve problems led to numerous visits over the years from neighbours and others who were looking for help to figure something out or complete a job right.
He also was an outdoors person who enjoyed mornings. Dad would be up and at the day’s work as there was always plenty to do.
In his earlier years, he worked at the Dorion fish hatchery, for Ontario Hydro, and in the grain harvest in Manitoba. He enjoyed seeing the different parts of the country and met many new friends along the way.
Hunting, trapping, and fishing were favourite pastimes, and he guided for many years out of Nestor Falls. It never seemed like work as he was in his element.
Dad farmed his whole life and helped establish the Rainy River Cattlemen’s Association, and was one of the first Canadian breeders of Charolais cattle.
He also worked for the Department of Highways in various capacities, finally retiring as road superintendent in 1990 for MTO.
Dad had an exceptional ear for music and could play many instruments. The accordion was his favourite. He and Mom also enjoyed many years of membership and dancing with the Country Squares.
Dad and Mom were Chicago Blackhawks’ fans, and one of Dad’s life highlights was meeting and visiting with Bobby Hull in the Hereford barn at the Canadian Western Agribition.
The Toronto Blue Jays were Dad’s favourite team and he very much enjoyed sitting down with Mom to watch the game. Keeping up on curling also was important, as was keeping up on the news.
He was an avid, intense reader and kept abreast of local and regional happenings, as well as enjoying many books of short stories and history.
Keith will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Grace; children, Mike (Joanne) of Willowbrook, Sask., Colin (Trish) of North Branch, Ont., Shannon (Terry) Kawulia of Fort Frances, Ont., and Heather (Francis) Clayton of Thunder Bay, Ont.; and grandchildren, Matt, Jay, Hunter, and Tanner Neilson, and Sydney, Madison, and Erin Clayton.
He also is survived by his brother, Moie Neilson, of Emo, Ont. and sister, Dixie Kivi, of North Branch, Ont.; sisters-in-law Vivian Neilson and Louise Neilson, both of Fort Frances, Ont.; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Keith was predeceased by his parents, Niels and Stella Neilson; sisters, Bernice (Paul) Sisco and Thelma (Walter) Hansen; brothers, Art (Kay), Carman, and Garnet Neilson; brother-in-law, Robert Kivi; sister-in-law, Marjorie Neilson; grandson, Luke Clayton; in-laws, Noble and Annie Hyatt; and numerous extended family members.
As per Keith’s wishes, a private family interment took place in Pine Ridge Cemetery in North Branch, with Rev. Frances Flook officiating.
If desired, in memoriam donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society c/o Northridge Funeral Home, P.O. Box 89, Emo, Ont., P0W 1E0.
Online condolences may be offered at www.northridgefuneralhome.com