Obituary of Neil Johnson MacQuarrie

MacQUARRIE, Neil J. Pictou Neil Johnson, MacQuarrie - 91, born April 13, 1932 of Pictou, originally from Westville, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2023. He was the son of the late Lena (Boehk) and Archie MacQuarrie. As a young man Neil enlisted in the Canadian Army and went on to serve two deployments in the Korean War. He was a PTE in the RCEME in which he received an Hourable Release. Neil was a Jack-of-all-trades, from farming at a young age and moving on to various construction work including his self employment with "Light Trucking ''. Neil worked at the Fergusons Ltd. Ind. for the remainder of his working career but that didn't stop him from helping build the homes for those close to him. Neil was a lifetime member of the Pictou Legion Branch 16 since the early 1950's. Neil was always looking for someone to share in his child's play; always trying to torment, tease or 'get your goat', as he enjoyed a good laugh. He was humbly generous, helping family and friends alike. With a memory like no other of history, past events and would often recite verses from the bible, being a religious man. Neil took great pride and honour in being a Veteran. Neil is survived by Denise MacKenzie, a special child of his heart. It filled him with love and joy to be called Papa Neil by her children, Sheena (Rob Dalton), Jacqueline (Larry Reid), Hanna (Chris Fraser) and all of their children, Gracie, Tyler, Harlow; Gabby, Ruby, Tide, Maddi; Hudson, Jetta, Aliza. He is also survived by daughter, Amanda and grandsons, Ethan and Evan; sisters, Peggy Kontuck, Carol (Tom Horton), Debbie (Kirk Fredericks), and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was preceded by sister, Isabelle (John Dowell) and brother, William (Billy) MacQuarrie. The family would like to thank his special caregivers over the years, Dawn, Kathleen, Michelle, Deanne, Jenn. Jillian (SW), Laurie, Colleen, Belinda, John and Liam along many others who have cared for Neil along the way. Visitation will take place at the McLaren Funeral Home, Pictou on Friday, November 17, 2023 from 5-8PM. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 1PM. Burial to follow at Seaview Cemetery and a celebration of life after the services at the Pictou Legion Branch 16. Donations in Neil’s memory may be made to Injured Veterans, Salvation Army or Charity of your choice.