December 30, 1954 – September 27, 2025
Mr. Christopher Daniel MacNeil, age 70 years, passed away peacefully in St. Joseph’s Hospice on Saturday, September 27, 2025. He lived by the motto “Vincere Vel mori”, meaning “To Conquer or Die”.
Chris was born in Fort William on December 30, 1954 and was educated in numerous Catholic elementary schools, before attending Selkirk Vocational School, where he met the love of his life, Wendy Hlady. He worked at Abitibi Paper and various other jobs with MacNeil Lakehead, where he served his apprenticeship to become a Journeyman Plumber and onto being a Red Seal Steamfitter. Chris was a proud member of U.A. 628 Local for 50 years.
Chris was an avid sportsman involving our family in many adventures, including fishing inland lakes and Superior upon “The Noon’r” as well as hunting. Chris always had a passion for motorcycles and finally got the bike he always wanted. He was a member of the Brotherhood of Libertas riding club, where he was affectionately known as “HEF” and participated in charity runs and Legion wreath laying.
Doc MacNeil could fix or build near anything and would go above and beyond to help. You could locate him anywhere by his hardy pirate-like deep laugh!
Chris will be profoundly missed by his wife of 53 years, Wendy; his sons Joseph and James MacNeil; his beloved canine companion, Cali-Girl and sisters Rose (Charlie) Nagi, Sal (Gib) Bruce, Marg (Tom) Montgomery and sister-in-law Edith MacNeil. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, his bestfriends, cousin Kevin, Leon, Bill and many more.
He was predeceased by his parents, Iris and George MacNeil; sister Lorri and brother George MacNeil.
Heartfelt thanks to the Palliative and Hospice Teams of St. Joseph’s Hospital for the care and compassion you gave to Chris and our entire family.
A Celebration of Chris’ Life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 1:00pm until 4:00pm at the Westfort Prosvita, 721 Gore Street West.
Should friends so desire, donations made in memory of Chris to a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Westfort Chapel, 420 West Gore Street at James.
Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com
