Mar 15, 1945 - Jan 19, 2018
Sadly, Neil passed away at home after a lengthy illness.
Survived by his loving wife Sandra, his much loved dog Higgins, his "girls" Sherry Carmichael (Bob) Clearwater, Tammy McDonald (Chris) Barriere, Lorie Chambers (Pat) Little Fort.
Five grandsons; Matthew and Mitchell (Nicole) Carmichael, Alexander McDonald, Braeden and Brycen Chambers. Siblings; Linda Lynch (Bob) Langley, Richard Stearns (Sharon), Janet Danroth (Ken) all of Port Alberni, and Susan Chaston Langley, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.
Predeceased by first wife Linda (Marcel), nephew Kelly Stearns and parents Vernon & Florence.
Neil was the eldest child of Florence (Rath) and Vernon Stearns. He was born in Belleville, Ontario. The family moved to Clearwater when Neil was two years old. He attended school in Clearwater then Langley. He was a hard worker; as a young boy in Langley he had a paper route & worked at a chicken farm. Upon returning to Clearwater he began working in the forest industry. Neil took great pride in his work, he was a grader operator for CTP, a buckerman, stroker operator as well as chain sharpener for many valley loggers.
Highlights of Neils community service were his many years of coaching ball and involvement in the Sno Drifters snowmobile club. He was nominated for citizen of the year for his dedication to community. Neil was a very kind hearted, gentle and generous man, often helping family, friends and neighbours. He had a big wave, smile, laugh and giggle for all.
He loved music, dancing, camping and all things outdoors. A favourite saying was "lets just have a relaxing beer!"
A recent and very special memory was listening to Neil play Grannies piano at Thanksgiving.
He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all.