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It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert “Robbie” William MacNeil, age 58, at his home in Southside Boularderie on May 6, 2026.
Born to William and Geraldine MacNeil, Rob grew up in Southside Boularderie and lived in Hammonds Plains for more than 35 years before returning to his beloved childhood home for the remaining years of his life.
Rob was charismatic, funny, and “always on the ball.” He had a fond love for the beach, cooking and sharing meals, music and dancing, learning about history, and working in his yard. He cherished time spent with his family, whether watching a movie, enjoying an early morning coffee, or sharing stories around the dinner table. Throughout his life, Rob spoke endlessly about the pride he had for his three daughters, and he honoured his love for family through his tattoos.
Rob was a loving partner and a devoted father who loved his girls more than anything else. During their childhoods, he spent countless hours cooking dinners, attending basketball games and figure skating competitions, and enjoying Friday night movies together. As they grew older, Rob taught them about the world — the importance of loyalty, fairness, and staying true to their values — while passing on his fierce and tireless work ethic. He often expressed his love through food, and his daughters hold dear memories of cooking with him in the kitchen and sharing long drives together.
Rob spent his career as a respected expert and leader in asbestos abatement and demolition. He owned and operated Decon Environmental for more than a decade before being sought after for his ability to build businesses into thriving operations. His extensive knowledge and talent for problem-solving brought him across many provinces, where he became familiar with countless cities, towns, roads, and restaurants along the way.
In recent years, Rob faced several health challenges. Although heartbroken by his loss, his family finds comfort in knowing he is now at peace.
Rob is lovingly remembered and survived by his mother, Geraldine; his wife, Veronica, his beloved “Ron Hon”; his three daughters, Jaclyn, Jamee, and Robbyn; their partners, Jamal Ali, Scott MacKendrick, and Jake Ryan; his companion, Janine Yurczyszyn; his siblings, Rick (Som Hathairat) MacNeil, Susan (Pat) Lavery, and Sheila Jessome; his in laws, Rod and Charlotte MacIntrye, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Besides his father, William “Bill” MacNeil, Rob was predeceased by his sister, Sandra, and his brother-in-law, Bill Jessome.
Rob’s words will live on through the clever sayings and affectionately given nicknames he shared with family and friends. He will be dearly missed and never forgotten.
Visitation for Rob will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. at J.M. Jobes Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass celebrating his life will take place on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Parish, Bras d'Or with a lunch to follow in the parish hall. A private committal service will be held with the family at a later date.
Vincere vel mori
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert (Robbie) William MacNeil, please visit our floral store.