James “Neil” Dickieson

(Donated to London Health Sciences Foundation - Aneurysm Research)

I was stunned upon receipt of Donna's call last Wednesday telling us that her dear father, Neil Dickieson had suddenly passed. The next few days were filled with grief and sadness, but the fog is slowly clearing and turning to fond memories of a life well-lived. My Uncle Neil has been a key figure in my life, all my life. From growing up with our great family trips to Canada, spending time together on the shores of Lake Huron, staying with his family on summer vacations in Guelph and many visits to London, to them visiting us for holidays or special occasions in Michigan. One of the lake activities was the Uncle Neil driving school. This involved a young nephew sitting on his uncle's knee and steering a bright new Chevy down two-track sand roads. This activity was not reported to Mom or Aunt Anna, but I believe sparked a lifelong love of cars and discussion of what types should be driven and how fast (always in excess of the posted limit). Police departments far and wide weighed in on this debate over the years as they stopped either Uncle Neil or me to discuss the matter face-to-face. One funny story of the Guelph days was a visit by Miss Mary McGee. She was a neighbor and childhood friend of Donna who had come by for some socializing when I was having an extended summer vacation stay with the Dickiesons. We were in the basement when Mary (maybe 12 years old) announced that she would kiss anyone back that kissed her. What she failed to realize was that at that exact moment, Uncle Neil was coming down the stairs and overheard this proclamation. She was very surprised as he swooped in for the unexpected kiss. A good laugh was had by all. His focus was always family first, and that not only meant his terrific wife of 66+ years, my Aunt Anna - his daughters, Donna, Debbie and Jayne; but also siblings, spouses and cousins. He epitomized the perfect gentlemen, father and loving husband. When he said "hello" and "how are you", they weren't just perfunctory greetings, he sincerely wanted to know. And whatever information you provided went into a detailed memory bank that was both broad and deep. That information was neatly filed away for future reference regarding life goals, accomplishments and the many small and large milestones of life. He truly was the family tree encyclopedia, which was updated constantly. Another important priority for Uncle Neil was support, compassion and love of fellow human beings. Whenever anyone in the family needed help, Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna were there. When my Dad and hero was taken from us far too soon in 1970, they were at the ready to aid and comfort my Mom and us. I have always felt their special love for me and my family. Their compassion was widely known in their church community as well. I remember chuckling to myself when they referred to their many acts of kindness as going out to assist the old folks that needed help. They were in their 80's when this statement was made. And what about the gem of a family Uncle Neil? Donna, Debbie and Jayne have been like sisters to me over many years. Then came their loves, Blair, Ken and Bob, plus children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. A clan of wonderful people like the Dickiesons starts with the special people at the top, My Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. They helped reinforce the close-knit family values we all share and have served us well. I found the love of my life in Alice Chamberlain about twelve years ago. She was instantly accepted by Uncle Neil and his family as if a lifelong friend and family member. That feeling of acceptance makes me immeasurably happy and can only be believed when it comes from people that are as authentic and genuine as Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. In fact, Alice's Mom Betsey, another nonagenarian, has also become friends with the Dickiesons over the last decade. In closing, Uncle Neil was a unique person with so many special gifts that it is hard to imagine life without him. I'm sure many others feel this way as well today, so we will grieve together and support each other like we always have. Although he is no longer with us in physical form, his influence and impact on me remains. I am reminded of the old military adage "a hero remembered never dies". My hero Neil Dickieson will be with me forever.

My thoughts are with you all. Neil was a class act. A kind and gentle man with a quick sense of humour. I sat and had a great talk to him after church at the end of June. We had a good giggle and he talked so fondly of you all. My prayers are with you all. May your memories of his love and laughter comfort you in your grief. Susan McNair

So sorry to hear of your loss Debbie and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.

My sympathy and condolences to you all. He was a fine man. Isabel Nordine.

My sympathy and condolences to you all. He was a fine man. Isabel Nordine.

(Donated to Sleeping Children Around the World)

(Donated to London Health Sciences Foundation - Aneurysm Research)

(Donated to London Health Sciences Foundation - Aneurysm Research)

(Donated to London Health Sciences Foundation - Aneurysm Research)

I was stunned upon receipt of Donna's call last Wednesday telling us that her dear father, Neil Dickieson had suddenly passed. The next few days were filled with grief and sadness, but the fog is slowly clearing and turning to fond memories of a life well-lived. My Uncle Neil has been a key figure in my life, all my life. From growing up with our great family trips to Canada, spending time together on the shores of Lake Huron, staying with his family on summer vacations in Guelph and many visits to London, to them visiting us for holidays or special occasions in Michigan. One of the lake activities was the Uncle Neil driving school. This involved a young nephew sitting on his uncle's knee and steering a bright new Chevy down two-track sand roads. This activity was not reported to Mom or Aunt Anna, but I believe sparked a lifelong love of cars and discussion of what types should be driven and how fast (always in excess of the posted limit). Police departments far and wide weighed in on this debate over the years as they stopped either Uncle Neil or me to discuss the matter face-to-face. One funny story of the Guelph days was a visit by Miss Mary McGee. She was a neighbor and childhood friend of Donna who had come by for some socializing when I was having an extended summer vacation stay with the Dickiesons. We were in the basement when Mary (maybe 12 years old) announced that she would kiss anyone back that kissed her. What she failed to realize was that at that exact moment, Uncle Neil was coming down the stairs and overheard this proclamation. She was very surprised as he swooped in for the unexpected kiss. A good laugh was had by all. His focus was always family first, and that not only meant his terrific wife of 66+ years, my Aunt Anna - his daughters, Donna, Debbie and Jayne; but also siblings, spouses and cousins. He epitomized the perfect gentlemen, father and loving husband. When he said "hello" and "how are you", they weren't just perfunctory greetings, he sincerely wanted to know. And whatever information you provided went into a detailed memory bank that was both broad and deep. That information was neatly filed away for future reference regarding life goals, accomplishments and the many small and large milestones of life. He truly was the family tree encyclopedia, which was updated constantly. Another important priority for Uncle Neil was support, compassion and love of fellow human beings. Whenever anyone in the family needed help, Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna were there. When my Dad and hero was taken from us far too soon in 1970, they were at the ready to aid and comfort my Mom and us. I have always felt their special love for me and my family. Their compassion was widely known in their church community as well. I remember chuckling to myself when they referred to their many acts of kindness as going out to assist the old folks that needed help. They were in their 80's when this statement was made. And what about the gem of a family Uncle Neil? Donna, Debbie and Jayne have been like sisters to me over many years. Then came their loves, Blair, Ken and Bob, plus children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. A clan of wonderful people like the Dickiesons starts with the special people at the top, My Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. They helped reinforce the close-knit family values we all share and have served us well. I found the love of my life in Alice Chamberlain about twelve years ago. She was instantly accepted by Uncle Neil and his family as if a lifelong friend and family member. That feeling of acceptance makes me immeasurably happy and can only be believed when it comes from people that are as authentic and genuine as Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. In fact, Alice's Mom Betsey, another nonagenarian, has also become friends with the Dickiesons over the last decade. In closing, Uncle Neil was a unique person with so many special gifts that it is hard to imagine life without him. I'm sure many others feel this way as well today, so we will grieve together and support each other like we always have. Although he is no longer with us in physical form, his influence and impact on me remains. I am reminded of the old military adage "a hero remembered never dies". My hero Neil Dickieson will be with me forever.

(Donated to London Health Sciences Foundation - Aneurysm Research)

(Donated to London Health Sciences Foundation - Aneurysm Research)

(Donated to London Health Sciences Foundation - Aneurysm Research)

(Donated to London Health Sciences Foundation - Aneurysm Research)

(Donated to Sleeping Children Around the World)

(Donated to Sleeping Children Around the World)

(Donated to London Health Sciences Foundation - Aneurysm Research)

(Donated to London Health Sciences Foundation - Aneurysm Research)

(Donated to St. Vincent de Paul)

We are all feeling the recent loss of Neil profoundly -- he and Anna were such dear and devoted friends to our parents, Ethel and George, over the many years. It wasn't that long ago when I fielded their in-coming phone calls to Mom towards the end of her life. The thoughtfulness of these particular calls, placed by Neil, will never be forgotten. Mom loved them, I know, even when she could no longer express it fully. And I got to know Neil a little more because of them. Thank goodness for his and Anna's 66 loving years together - we wish Anna and all of the Dickieson family the courage and strength to get through the coming days and hope you will find peace and contentment in the many happy memories you have of Neil. Again, our deepest sympathies.

I am so sorry to hear of Neil's passing, Anna. It was pleasure to help you and Neil and I looked forward to our weekly visits. You were both a joy to be with and Neil was such a gentle soul, yet, he always knew what he wanted. Usually, date squares! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He will be sadly missed. Dawn

I met Neil in the mid 70's when I was Controller of the first car dealership that I worked at. Over the years Neil and Ralph Glew were my mentors. I don't think I would have kept at it without the both of them. Neil was a gentleman, a great father, grandfather, husband and friend.

We were so sorry to hear Neil passed away. We send our sympathy to you, Anna, and your family. We have always cherished our friendship with you and Neil. He will be sadly missed.

Please accept my deepest condolences to yo Debbie & Ken & family. Know that the lord is with you and will help you through this time of sorrow. My prayers will be with you all.

To Debbie & Family, Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His faithful servants. Our hearts are saddened by your loss and our thoughts and prayers are truly with you. Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart. Sincere condolences Laureen & Carl Bowen

Anna: Please know that our thoughts & prayers are with you at this difficult time. Neil was a wonderful, kind man and will be greatly missed. Our condolences to our Nana Jayne; and Donna & Debbie and their families. xoxo Paul, Angie, Cody and Kylie

To Jayne and Family, we are all very saddened by your loss. We are thinking about you during this difficult time. We wish you strength and courage and hope that your loving memories will help you celebrate your father's life and cherrish his spirit. Sincere condolences

Our deepest sympathies, from our family to yours. I have always had fond memories of the few times that we spent together celebrating holidays or just visiting. Even though it was many, many years ago....it was a joy to meet Uncle Neil , Aunt Anna, and cousins. All of them making us feel welcome,and comfortable. I remember a down to earth, fun loving family making us feel like we belonged! Thank you so much for giving us that love, it was hard enough adjusting to our new dad, Paul Murray, let alone having Christmas so far away, that first year. Once again, I'm sorry for your loss of such a wonderful man. May God be with you all!

....Remembering your wonderful Father and Husband and thinking of you as you honor his remarkable life. With love at this sad time. Sandra, Alan and Amber.

To you , Anna , and your wonderful family, we send kind thoughts and love. Neil was a gentleman in every aspect of life. We cherished our friendship which spanned many years. We became elders at the same time . We shall remember our regular visits , which included a leisurely lunch at Ingersol.Blessings to all.

To the Diekieson family, John and I want to convey our sympathy to you and your family. What wonderful memories you will be able to share of this wonderful husband and father. Take care. Sincerely John and Elaine Deswaef

Dear Anna and family, We are so sorry for your lost of this wonderful man Neil. He really was amazing and someone who was so kind, caring, thoughtful and full of life. He was a true gentleman. No one could believe he is true age. He was my dad Richard's cousin and they had reconnected when my parents moved to London. After my dad had a stroke Neil and Anna contacted my mom Faye on a routine basis either at home or when she was in the hospital . My mom really appreciated this as did we. When Dale and I came to visit and brother Ron and Julie Dickieson and sister Tracey and Al came to visit London we would always check in with Neil and Anna. We loved to chat with Neil and Anna and have many great memories of our get togethers and his wonderful stories. Neil will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of meeting him. He was definitely one of those people who only come along once in a long while but leaves a huge impression on your life. In this difficult time please remember we are all sending our thoughts and sympathies. Take Care, Lorna

As Maya Angelou wisely noted, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Neil made me feel special; he never forgot that we shared a birthday. He always has, and he always will, figure prominently in my memories of "the halcyon days of our youth."

Jayne and Dickieson family, Powerful thing, Time is. We enjoy the time we have and wish we had more. "If only there was more time." We would all do things differently. Please know our thoughts are with you and your family. Neil took the time to raise a great daughter. All who know you, Jayne feel the same way. Only time will bring you peace and mend your broken heart. Our condolences to you Jayne and your family. Jim, Chantal and Nick.

I was stunned upon receipt of Donna's call last Wednesday telling us that her dear father, Neil Dickieson had suddenly passed. The next few days were filled with grief and sadness, but the fog is slowly clearing and turning to fond memories of a life well-lived. My Uncle Neil has been a key figure in my life, all my life. From growing up with our great family trips to Canada, spending time together on the shores of Lake Huron, staying with his family on summer vacations in Guelph and many visits to London, to them visiting us for holidays or special occasions in Michigan. One of the lake activities was the Uncle Neil driving school. This involved a young nephew sitting on his uncle's knee and steering a bright new Chevy down two-track sand roads. This activity was not reported to Mom or Aunt Anna, but I believe sparked a lifelong love of cars and discussion of what types should be driven and how fast (always in excess of the posted limit). Police departments far and wide weighed in on this debate over the years as they stopped either Uncle Neil or me to discuss the matter face-to-face. One funny story of the Guelph days was a visit by Miss Mary McGee. She was a neighbor and childhood friend of Donna who had come by for some socializing when I was having an extended summer vacation stay with the Dickiesons. We were in the basement when Mary (maybe 12 years old) announced that she would kiss anyone back that kissed her. What she failed to realize was that at that exact moment, Uncle Neil was coming down the stairs and overheard this proclamation. She was very surprised as he swooped in for the unexpected kiss. A good laugh was had by all. His focus was always family first, and that not only meant his terrific wife of 66+ years, my Aunt Anna - his daughters, Donna, Debbie and Jayne; but also siblings, spouses and cousins. He epitomized the perfect gentlemen, father and loving husband. When he said "hello" and "how are you", they weren't just perfunctory greetings, he sincerely wanted to know. And whatever information you provided went into a detailed memory bank that was both broad and deep. That information was neatly filed away for future reference regarding life goals, accomplishments and the many small and large milestones of life. He truly was the family tree encyclopedia, which was updated constantly. Another important priority for Uncle Neil was support, compassion and love of fellow human beings. Whenever anyone in the family needed help, Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna were there. When my Dad and hero was taken from us far too soon in 1970, they were at the ready to aid and comfort my Mom and us. I have always felt their special love for me and my family. Their compassion was widely known in their church community as well. I remember chuckling to myself when they referred to their many acts of kindness as going out to assist the old folks that needed help. They were in their 80's when this statement was made. And what about the gem of a family Uncle Neil? Donna, Debbie and Jayne have been like sisters to me over many years. Then came their loves, Blair, Ken and Bob, plus children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. A clan of wonderful people like the Dickiesons starts with the special people at the top, My Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. They helped reinforce the close-knit family values we all share and have served us well. I found the love of my life in Alice Chamberlain about twelve years ago. She was instantly accepted by Uncle Neil and his family as if a lifelong friend and family member. That feeling of acceptance makes me immeasurably happy and can only be believed when it comes from people that are as authentic and genuine as Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. In fact, Alice's Mom Betsey, another nonagenarian, has also become friends with the Dickiesons over the last decade. In closing, Uncle Neil was a unique person with so many special gifts that it is hard to imagine life without him. I'm sure many others feel this way as well today, so we will grieve together and support each other like we always have. Although he is no longer with us in physical form, his influence and impact on me remains. I am reminded of the old military adage "a hero remembered never dies". My hero Neil Dickieson will be with me forever.

I was stunned upon receipt of Donna's call last Wednesday telling us that her dear father, Neil Dickieson had suddenly passed. The next few days were filled with grief and sadness, but the fog is slowly clearing and turning to fond memories of a life well-lived. My Uncle Neil has been a key figure in my life, all my life. From growing up with our great family trips to Canada, spending time together on the shores of Lake Huron, staying with his family on summer vacations in Guelph and many visits to London, to them visiting us for holidays or special occasions in Michigan. One of the lake activities was the Uncle Neil driving school. This involved a young nephew sitting on his uncle's knee and steering a bright new Chevy down two-track sand roads. This activity was not reported to Mom or Aunt Anna, but I believe sparked a lifelong love of cars and discussion of what types should be driven and how fast (always in excess of the posted limit). Police departments far and wide weighed in on this debate over the years as they stopped either Uncle Neil or me to discuss the matter face-to-face. One funny story of the Guelph days was a visit by Miss Mary McGee. She was a neighbor and childhood friend of Donna who had come by for some socializing when I was having an extended summer vacation stay with the Dickiesons. We were in the basement when Mary (maybe 12 years old) announced that she would kiss anyone back that kissed her. What she failed to realize was that at that exact moment, Uncle Neil was coming down the stairs and overheard this proclamation. She was very surprised as he swooped in for the unexpected kiss. A good laugh was had by all. His focus was always family first, and that not only meant his terrific wife of 66+ years, my Aunt Anna - his daughters, Donna, Debbie and Jayne; but also siblings, spouses and cousins. He epitomized the perfect gentlemen, father and loving husband. When he said "hello" and "how are you", they weren't just perfunctory greetings, he sincerely wanted to know. And whatever information you provided went into a detailed memory bank that was both broad and deep. That information was neatly filed away for future reference regarding life goals, accomplishments and the many small and large milestones of life. He truly was the family tree encyclopedia, which was updated constantly. Another important priority for Uncle Neil was support, compassion and love of fellow human beings. Whenever anyone in the family needed help, Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna were there. When my Dad and hero was taken from us far too soon in 1970, they were at the ready to aid and comfort my Mom and us. I have always felt their special love for me and my family. Their compassion was widely known in their church community as well. I remember chuckling to myself when they referred to their many acts of kindness as going out to assist the old folks that needed help. They were in their 80's when this statement was made. And what about the gem of a family Uncle Neil? Donna, Debbie and Jayne have been like sisters to me over many years. Then came their loves, Blair, Ken and Bob, plus children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. A clan of wonderful people like the Dickiesons starts with the special people at the top, My Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. They helped reinforce the close-knit family values we all share and have served us well. I found the love of my life in Alice Chamberlain about twelve years ago. She was instantly accepted by Uncle Neil and his family as if a lifelong friend and family member. That feeling of acceptance makes me immeasurably happy and can only be believed when it comes from people that are as authentic and genuine as Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. In fact, Alice's Mom Betsey, another nonagenarian, has also become friends with the Dickiesons over the last decade. In closing, Uncle Neil was a unique person with so many special gifts that it is hard to imagine life without him. I'm sure many others feel this way as well today, so we will grieve together and support each other like we always have. Although he is no longer with us in physical form, his influence and impact on me remains. I am reminded of the old military adage "a hero remembered never dies". My hero Neil Dickieson will be with me forever.

I was stunned upon receipt of Donna's call last Wednesday telling us that her dear father, Neil Dickieson had suddenly passed. The next few days were filled with grief and sadness, but the fog is slowly clearing and turning to fond memories of a life well-lived. My Uncle Neil has been a key figure in my life, all my life. From growing up with our great family trips to Canada, spending time together on the shores of Lake Huron, staying with his family on summer vacations in Guelph and many visits to London, to them visiting us for holidays or special occasions in Michigan. One of the lake activities was the Uncle Neil driving school. This involved a young nephew sitting on his uncle's knee and steering a bright new Chevy down two-track sand roads. This activity was not reported to Mom or Aunt Anna, but I believe sparked a lifelong love of cars and discussion of what types should be driven and how fast (always in excess of the posted limit). Police departments far and wide weighed in on this debate over the years as they stopped either Uncle Neil or me to discuss the matter face-to-face. One funny story of the Guelph days was a visit by Miss Mary McGee. She was a neighbor and childhood friend of Donna who had come by for some socializing when I was having an extended summer vacation stay with the Dickiesons. We were in the basement when Mary (maybe 12 years old) announced that she would kiss anyone back that kissed her. What she failed to realize was that at that exact moment, Uncle Neil was coming down the stairs and overheard this proclamation. She was very surprised as he swooped in for the unexpected kiss. A good laugh was had by all. His focus was always family first, and that not only meant his terrific wife of 66+ years, my Aunt Anna - his daughters, Donna, Debbie and Jayne; but also siblings, spouses and cousins. He epitomized the perfect gentlemen, father and loving husband. When he said "hello" and "how are you", they weren't just perfunctory greetings, he sincerely wanted to know. And whatever information you provided went into a detailed memory bank that was both broad and deep. That information was neatly filed away for future reference regarding life goals, accomplishments and the many small and large milestones of life. He truly was the family tree encyclopedia, which was updated constantly. Another important priority for Uncle Neil was support, compassion and love of fellow human beings. Whenever anyone in the family needed help, Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna were there. When my Dad and hero was taken from us far too soon in 1970, they were at the ready to aid and comfort my Mom and us. I have always felt their special love for me and my family. Their compassion was widely known in their church community as well. I remember chuckling to myself when they referred to their many acts of kindness as going out to assist the old folks that needed help. They were in their 80's when this statement was made. And what about the gem of a family Uncle Neil? Donna, Debbie and Jayne have been like sisters to me over many years. Then came their loves, Blair, Ken and Bob, plus children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. A clan of wonderful people like the Dickiesons starts with the special people at the top, My Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. They helped reinforce the close-knit family values we all share and have served us well. I found the love of my life in Alice Chamberlain about twelve years ago. She was instantly accepted by Uncle Neil and his family as if a lifelong friend and family member. That feeling of acceptance makes me immeasurably happy and can only be believed when it comes from people that are as authentic and genuine as Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. In fact, Alice's Mom Betsey, another nonagenarian, has also become friends with the Dickiesons over the last decade. In closing, Uncle Neil was a unique person with so many special gifts that it is hard to imagine life without him. I'm sure many others feel this way as well today, so we will grieve together and support each other like we always have. Although he is no longer with us in physical form, his influence and impact on me remains. I am reminded of the old military adage "a hero remembered never dies". My hero Neil Dickieson will be with me forever.

I was stunned upon receipt of Donna's call last Wednesday telling us that her dear father, Neil Dickieson had suddenly passed. The next few days were filled with grief and sadness, but the fog is slowly clearing and turning to fond memories of a life well-lived. My Uncle Neil has been a key figure in my life, all my life. From growing up with our great family trips to Canada, spending time together on the shores of Lake Huron, staying with his family on summer vacations in Guelph and many visits to London, to them visiting us for holidays or special occasions in Michigan. One of the lake activities was the Uncle Neil driving school. This involved a young nephew sitting on his uncle's knee and steering a bright new Chevy down two-track sand roads. This activity was not reported to Mom or Aunt Anna, but I believe sparked a lifelong love of cars and discussion of what types should be driven and how fast (always in excess of the posted limit). Police departments far and wide weighed in on this debate over the years as they stopped either Uncle Neil or me to discuss the matter face-to-face. One funny story of the Guelph days was a visit by Miss Mary McGee. She was a neighbor and childhood friend of Donna who had come by for some socializing when I was having an extended summer vacation stay with the Dickiesons. We were in the basement when Mary (maybe 12 years old) announced that she would kiss anyone back that kissed her. What she failed to realize was that at that exact moment, Uncle Neil was coming down the stairs and overheard this proclamation. She was very surprised as he swooped in for the unexpected kiss. A good laugh was had by all. His focus was always family first, and that not only meant his terrific wife of 66+ years, my Aunt Anna - his daughters, Donna, Debbie and Jayne; but also siblings, spouses and cousins. He epitomized the perfect gentlemen, father and loving husband. When he said "hello" and "how are you", they weren't just perfunctory greetings, he sincerely wanted to know. And whatever information you provided went into a detailed memory bank that was both broad and deep. That information was neatly filed away for future reference regarding life goals, accomplishments and the many small and large milestones of life. He truly was the family tree encyclopedia, which was updated constantly. Another important priority for Uncle Neil was support, compassion and love of fellow human beings. Whenever anyone in the family needed help, Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna were there. When my Dad and hero was taken from us far too soon in 1970, they were at the ready to aid and comfort my Mom and us. I have always felt their special love for me and my family. Their compassion was widely known in their church community as well. I remember chuckling to myself when they referred to their many acts of kindness as going out to assist the old folks that needed help. They were in their 80's when this statement was made. And what about the gem of a family Uncle Neil? Donna, Debbie and Jayne have been like sisters to me over many years. Then came their loves, Blair, Ken and Bob, plus children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. A clan of wonderful people like the Dickiesons starts with the special people at the top, My Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. They helped reinforce the close-knit family values we all share and have served us well. I found the love of my life in Alice Chamberlain about twelve years ago. She was instantly accepted by Uncle Neil and his family as if a lifelong friend and family member. That feeling of acceptance makes me immeasurably happy and can only be believed when it comes from people that are as authentic and genuine as Uncle Neil and Aunt Anna. In fact, Alice's Mom Betsey, another nonagenarian, has also become friends with the Dickiesons over the last decade. In closing, Uncle Neil was a unique person with so many special gifts that it is hard to imagine life without him. I'm sure many others feel this way as well today, so we will grieve together and support each other like we always have. Although he is no longer with us in physical form, his influence and impact on me remains. I am reminded of the old military adage "a hero remembered never dies". My hero Neil Dickieson will be with me forever.