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It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden, unexpected passing of Neil Robert Raabe on March 21, 2022, in Duncan BC at the age of 76.
Born in Prince Rupert, BC on January 28th, 1946, Neil was the second of three children born to Delia and Carl Raabe. He is predeceased by both his parents, and his sister Sandra Winter.
Neil will be lovingly missed by his adoring wife Brenda Smyth, sister Helen Heber (Bill), daughter – Susan Lanigan (Eric), son – Karl Raabe, stepdaughters, Kristi Frigstad (Steve), Karlee Nilssen (Dave), and his 7 grandchildren.
Neil’s love for travelling the world was fulfilled during his 30-year career in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). While in the Navy, he was often referred to as, “The best boss I ever had,” due to his ability and willingness to instruct and lead with his patient, calm demeanor.
After his retirement, Neil made his home in Sahtlam, BC (west of Duncan). He resided there for the past 23 years with his wife and soulmate Brenda along with several dogs they’ve loved over the years.
Neil loved nature – sunsets, and sunrises. He was happiest while on the ocean, in the woods hunting, collecting mushrooms, or ‘puttering’ in the garden creating an outdoor sanctuary for he, Brenda and their dogs to enjoy.
Neil was quiet and kind – a true gentleman. He loved all animals and they loved him. While he had several dear friends, he cherished his life-long friendships with Barrie Kirkland and Ed Paul.
Neil will be profoundly missed.
A gathering to honour and celebrate his life, will take place on
July 16th, 2022, from 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Cowichan Valley Trap and Skeet Club
4505 Cowichan Lake Road
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Neil Robert Raabe January 28 1946
March 21 2022..
H. W. Wallace Cremation and Burial Centre
Death notice for the town of: Duncan, Province: Colombie britanique
I sailed with Neil for a few years, and I must say he was one of the coolest guys I ever met. He was an awesome guy, great sense of humor, and always had everyone’s back. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him
Neil was a messmate of mine for many years on the old Restigouche. His nickname was the Rabbi and we have fond memories of our days at sea together. I joined the RCMP in 1976 but kept in touch with him through the Navy Days at Qualicum Beach. Sorry to hear of his passing.
I sailed with Neil many years ago. It was a unique profession serving on ships and being deployed all over the world. You always remember the Ships, and the Ships Companies that made up the crew. I have fond memories of different times and people, Neil was one of them, he was fine leader a with a calm demeanour, who mentored us young sailors. He made the Navy a place I wanted to be, I’m saddened upon reading of his passing. Safe travels ole friend and shipmate to your final port of call. Condolences to you all.
I first met Neil at the train station in Vancouver in 1966. We were both on our way to Basic Training in Cornwallis. We ended up in the same Division and after 4 months we graduated and got shipped to Halifax. We had a blast. By this time Neil had found a calling in the navy. This was further developed when we were both transferred to HMCS Saskatchewan and went to sea in 1967 (I think). The “sea” sealed it. In ‘68 we left for 3 months in the Far East. Neil was always calm and methodical in what he did. And I think that demeanour made him the leader he became (I’ve heard lots of “ best boss I ever had”). After the Far East cruise I went submarines and never saw him again. I may have to come to Cowichan in July for old times sake. Fair winds and following seas shipmate, rest you oars, we have the watch.