NEIL RAAFF
Surrounded by his family, Neil Francis Joseph Raaff’s brave battle with cancer ended Tuesday,
May 11th at the age of 74.
Beloved husband of Marjorie (Bartja). Loving father to Vicki (Paul) Greaves, David (Amanda) Raaff, and Stephen (Chantal) Raaff. He was adored by his granddaughters Bailey and Emma. Neil will be missed by his family and many friends in South Africa and Canada. His brother Allan Raaff of Cape Town was more than family. He was Neil’s best friend. Allan’s words of encouragement provided strength and guidance on this journey. Kay King of Johannesburg was more than a cousin. She was like a sister to Neil. They shared a special bond from childhood and the years growing up were filled with love and laughter.
Neil and Marjorie’s love story was a fairytale that started when they met on tour in Europe. Subsequent correspondence combined with flights between SA and Canada resulted in an engagement. They married, settling in Johannesburg, South Africa, starting a family and then several years later immigrating to Canada. Together they had the opportunity to travel back to South Africa several times, most recently for an extended three month holiday. They were fortunate enough to spend quality time with so many precious family and friends, memories that will forever be cherished.
Neil was born in Florida, Transvaal, South Africa to Roomeen and Burton (Sonny) Raaff. Neil enjoyed family vacations by the sea, developed a love for tennis, playing league and winning tournaments. He was a good sport on and off the court. He loved music and was a gifted pianist. Neil did not play by reading the music, instead he played from the heart making each time a magical and unique delight for all. Neil became an exceptional Hair Stylist, entering competitions both in South Africa and Europe, winning several awards. To his clients, Neil was more than just their Hair Stylist. He was a true friend bringing as much joy into their lives as they did into his. Neil had a kindness and generosity not often seen, and could bring a smile to anyone’s face, be it buying a stranger a coffee, or driving out to cut a clients hair on her birthday as a surprise. Neil always went ‘above and beyond’ for everyone. His selfless acts of kindness and generosity touched the lives of everyone he met in a profound way. His witty sense of humour could light up a room and his generous heart knew no boundaries. He has left a legacy of love, compassion, strength of character, determination and self-sacrifice. Right up until the end he was brave and selfless. Even during his final days he was still trying to take care of everyone.
The family would like to thank the Palliative Care Team, Dr Parent, Terry Tribe and the Nurses from Paramed for their help in navigating this difficult journey. We would also like to thank Darin Dees for his support, faith and wonderful words of comfort.
Cremation has taken place. Memorial donations to the Cancer Society, Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family and may be made at LockhartFuneralHome.com.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Neil Raaff Tuesday May 11th 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Mitchell, Province: Ontario