In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
Served in the Navy 21 Aug 1973 - Aug 2005
MacNEILL, Robert Edward - It is with great sadness that the family of Robert Edward MacNeill - fondly known as Bob or Bobby - announce his passing on May 2, 2025, at Camp Hill Veterans Memorial Hospital in Halifax, Nova Scotia, at the age of 70.
Born on June 15, 1954, in Dalhousie, New Brunswick, Bob lived a life defined by dedication, service, and love for his family and country. He proudly served in the Royal Canadian Navy for over three decades, enlisting on August 21, 1973 and retiring in August 2005. During his distinguished career as a Supply Technician, he rose to the rank of Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class (CPO2). His service included special duty tours in Egypt(1976-1977) and Cyprus (1982 and 1992), reflecting his unwavering commitment to peacekeeping and global service. He also served in Oberon Submarines as the last Storesman recruited.
As part of Bob's service, he and his wife Brenda took a posting in London, England, for five years. It was during this time abroad that they joyfully welcomed the births of their two children, Cindy and Alex.
Bob was a true sports fan-he loved watching sports of all kinds on TV. He also had a deep interest in true crime stories, often captivated by the twists and turns of investigations.
In retirement, his greatest joy came from being "Grampy" on the sidelines-whether it was at the hockey rink, soccer field, baseball diamond, or any other field where his grandsons, Brayden and Bradley, played. He cherished every opportunity to support them, proudly watching as Alex and his daughter-in-law, Christine, nurtured their growth through sport and activity.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Brenda Marlene MacNeill, and their loving children, Cindy MacNeill (Matt Mosher) and Alex MacNeill (Christine Keeping), and cherished grandchildren, Brayden and Bradley MacNeill. Bob is also survived by his siblings: Betty Ann Danks (Billy), Cathy Belanger (Marc), and Neil MacNeill, as wellas many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Kathleen (Kit) MacNeill and Robert MacNeill.
A funeral service and reception will be held on Friday, May 9th at 14:00 at the Eastern Passage Community Funeral Home, located at 5 Cow Bay Rd, Eastern Passage, NS B2Y 1E9. The service will be officiated by Rev .James Haughn. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Bob's life. Cremation has taken place, and a private burial will follow at a later date.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caregivers and medical staff at Camp Hill Veterans Memorial Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 164 (Eastern Passage) in Bob's memory.
Ships served in: HMCS OJIBWA - Robert was the last Storesman recruited into submarines
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