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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
McNEIL, Roderick Dennis (Rod/Roddie) - It is with profound sadness that we announce Rod’s passing on April 28, 2023, in Hospice Halifax surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 12, 1940, in New Waterford, he was a son of the late Stephen and Annie (Aucoin) McNeil. Rod is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Marion, whom he adored; daughters, RoseAnn and Colleen; son-in-law Eric, and granddaughter, Charlotte. He was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Gerald. Rod began his musical career as a member of the New Waterford Sea Cadet Band in the mid-1950’s. He joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1959, and graduated from the RCN School of Music in Esquimalt, British Columbia. After a short time with HMCS Naden Band in Victoria, Rod was posted back to Nova Scotia to join the band of HMCS Cornwallis. In 1963, he was posted to Halifax to the HMCS Stadacona Band, where he spent the remainder of his 35-year career as a Flutist, retiring in the rank of Petty Officer 1st Class in 1994. In his retirement years, he was a member of the Sackville Concert Band, where he continued to play his Flute for many more years. Rod was a devoted family man and loved nothing more than spending time with his ‘girls’ and ‘more like a son’, at the cottage on Lake Torment. He had perfected the art of ‘puttering’ and sitting on the deck telling stories of his travels around the world during his Navy Band years. He was a kind and devoted man with a quick wit, and always saw the positive in any situation. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Rod’s family would like to thank the many health care professionals who provided exceptional care, especially Dr. Lori Wood and Dr. David Bell of the NS Cancer Centre, and Palliative Care nurses Barbara Stewart and Kara Kaulback. The exceptional care provided by the staff at Hospice Halifax provided much needed comfort in his final days, and we will forever be grateful for their compassion. Donations in Rod’s memory can be made to Hospice Halifax or the Canadian Cancer Society. Cremation has taken place. A Funeral service will be celebrated at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, Lower Sackville, on Thursday, May 11th, at 11a.m., with reception following in the church hall. Internment will take place at Oakridge Memorial Gardens, Lower Sackville. (The Saltwire Network 04 May 2023)
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