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Peacefully on September 24th, 2024, Jim passed away after a lengthy battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis in his 79th year. Born December 7th, 1945, on his grandmother’s birthday and grandparents’ anniversary. Jim was the second son of four children. He will be sadly missed by his older brother Larry (Janet) Neal and younger sisters Cathy (Joe) Levan and Wendy Archer. Loving uncle of Lisa Walter, Craig (April) Boucher, Joe Levan (Stephanie), Sarah (Wayne) MacLean, Julie (Cory) Ireland, Richard (Karen) Archer, Neal (Kelly) Archer, Barb (Herb) Zylstra, and Nicole (Gary) Zylstra. Doting Great Uncle to several great nieces and nephews whom he loved spending time with. Jim will also be missed by his many cousins. Predeceased by his parents Edwin (Ted) and Blanche Neal.
Jim grew up on Ann Street attending Devine Street Public school and SCITS Secondary school. As a young man he played sports and the trombone in the Sertoma Boys Band. After graduating high school at age 17 he worked at Canada Trust, Cabot Carbon and finally Nova Chemicals Corunna, where he retired after 27 years of service.
Jim was adventurous in his youth backpacking across Europe four times and on one occasion staying for 3 months. He visited over 20 countries in his lifetime. Jim’s favourite hobby was woodworking and he was a gifted craftsman making beautiful furniture sought by everyone.
A lifelong classic car enthusiast owning 64&65 Oldsmobiles 442 Cutlass and 59&66 Corvettes that were kept meticulously clean. He had a passion for NHRA drag racing and loved going to races with friends all over Canada and the USA. He loved watching Sarnia Legionnaires games and was a diehard Chicago Blackhawks fan.
Jim was always willing to help anyone and enjoyed volunteering at St. Joseph’s Hospice. He was a kind soul and cherished many friendships all over the globe. The family wishes to thank Frank and Kathy Urquhart, Marlene (Bob) Gladwish and Jerry VanSelm for all their support and time spent with Jim. Also, the family wishes to acknowledge the excellent care Jim received from Dr. AI-Zubaidi and Dr. Allison Crombeen.
Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on October 10, 2024, from 1:00-3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, sympathy may be expressed through donations to the St. Joseph’s Hospice, Bluewater Health Palliative Care or charity of choice. (cheques only at the funeral home please).
December 7th 1945 September 24th 2024
Death notice for the town of: Sarnia, Province: Ontario
death notice James Michael Jim Neal December 7th 1945 September 24th 2024
obituaries notice James Michael Jim Neal December 7th 1945 September 24th 2024
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of James Michael Jim Neal December 7th 1945 September 24th 2024 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
