It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of ABS Brian Neill of SV Woodwind 1.  Brian had a benign, yet life threatening brain tumor successfully removed in November, 2023.  His recovery was going well until he contracted meningitis and a bacterial infection in his brain.  He fought like hell and was able to overcome the infection, though the battle left him very weak and, on Monday, February 26, 2024, his body could no longer endure the trauma and he suffered a fatal heart attack.  His loving partner, Tracy, was by his side when he passed.  Brian was 62.

Brian was born on September 10, 1961 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, and spent the first 30 years of his life in Eastern Canada, after which he moved West to Calgary, Alberta Canada.  When he retired 12 years ago, he sold his house and bought his sailboat.  It was his lifelong dream to live aboard and abroad.

Brian spent the last 11 winters living on his boat in Paradise Village Marina.  He always had projects on the go, whether it be replacing canvas, making repairs to the boat, or helping fellow cruisers.  Many a Happy Hour were spent with friends at Hector’s Beach Bar.  On Sundays, Brian would take his Honda Goldwing for a spin up the coast.  His faithful dog, Zoey, was constantly by his side and would sit in the saddlebag of the Goldwing, causing many a head to turn. 

Brian called British Columbia, Canada home in the summer, yet he was actually a resident of the world.  The last 6 summers he resided in RVs, either camping near Panorama Mountain Village, BC, or traveling across Canada.  Brian loved driving and was right at home behind the wheel of his motorhome.  He enjoyed racing go-carts, riding his electric dirtbike, and had aspirations of driving a Formula 1 car.  During a cross Canada trip in the summer of 2023, he was able to reconnect with many family and friends.

Brian is predeceased by his mother Nicole Neill, his Uncle Alec Neill, his Uncle Neill Neill and, the light of his life, Zoey, whom passed away while Brian was fighting for his own life.  Brian had forgotten Zoey was gone and often thought she was in his hospital bed with him.

He is survived by spouse Tracy Frederickson, sister Sandra Neill, her son Landen, his Auntie Lee Neill, and step-father David Neill.