Neil Kasper

  • Neil Kasper
  • Date of Passing: August 20, 2019
  • Born: July 24, 1927

Obituary

Cornelius Kasper, or Neil as he wanted to be called, is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Anita, his only sister Elizabeth and by his 4 daughters and their husbands; Sharon and Bill Reynolds, Linda and Jan Bass, Janet and Charlie Payjack and Joanne and Derek Oliver and their families. Those families include 9 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his brothers, Henry and Herman and his son-in-law Sean.

Neil was a very fun-loving man and he worked hard to make a good life for his wife and four daughters. Family was always very important to him. He cherished the times he could spend with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was never happier than when he could share his time with family. Both he and Anita planned many family get-togethers from backyard BBQ’s to the very elaborate Christmas celebrations, which included travelling to extended family Christmas dinners and the feast that mom did every year at home. Many, many great memories came from those gatherings.

After retirement, Neil could be found spending hours woodworking in his garage. Fishing was one of dad’s favorite pastimes, a passion that he shared with his son-in-law, Jan. Along the way he owned two boats and occasionally the sons-in-law were found fishing with him. He also belonged to the fishing club with the church and made lasting relationships with a lot of the men that belonged to the club. His fishing pastime was rewarded with many master angler awards.

Prior to retirement, Neil and Anita travelled to Europe for their 25th wedding anniversary. After retiring, they also travelled to various other destinations. They drove, took bus tours and flew to many places including Hawaii, Branson, Palm Springs and Texas.

For his 90th birthday, a celebration picnic was held in Kildonan Park. It was a very large family gathering and he was so thankful to see everyone there. He couldn’t say enough about how loved he felt that day.

In November of last year he was diagnosed with COPD and his decline after that was somewhat rapid. He spent Christmas in the hospital which was very difficult for him as Christmas with his family was always so important to him. His health declined over the months and after repeated visits in the hospital, he finally succumbed peacefully on August 20, 2019 at the age of 92.

Neil’s passing will leave a huge void in the family. He was so loved by his wife Anita, daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The memorial service will be held on Monday, August 26, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at North Kildonan Mennonite Church, 1131 Roch Street, Winnipeg, MB.

Donations in memory of Neil may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 1379 Kenaston Blvd, Winnipeg, MB R3P 2T5.