Neil Thomas Bielby passed away December 30, 2016. He died of a massive bacterial infection and cardiac arrest. He was born in White Rock BC on October 19, 1968. He was pre-deceased by his father Bryan Bielby, and his grandparents Ray and Alfreda Easson, and Bill and Ann Bielby.
Neil’s first 3 years spent in Sparwood, BC, before moving to the Thrums area. At 17 years old, he quit school to tend to his ailing father, and successfully paid down the bills that had accumulated, thereby saving the property from bank repossession. From there he moved to Vancouver. Some of his jobs were for non- union construction, where, at times, he was working where the employees had a rope tied to them to go over the side of buildings. Next, Neil got a job framing doors in apartments. He told them he was experienced (he had picked up a brochure and studied it). Then he worked at an RV shop in North Vancouver. He returned to Thrums in 1994 and opened up Horizon RV.
He had a zest for life. Snowmobiling (with his baby girl tucked in front fast asleep), dirt biking, sea-doing up the Faccina rapids, rafting down the same rapids, fireworks, and huge bonfires with cans of beans or corn or aerosol heaved in to explode. He had a good sense of humour. Neil had a tender heart, lending to those in need, giving his coat to a cold homeless man, and not charging some customers, etc. He often gave away rebuilt RVs to friends and to those who needed a home. And, he had a talent for caretaking stray animals.
Neil leaves his 2 children to love and miss him. He was immensely proud of Jessa Bielby (his li’l girl who carries on her daddy’s work ethic) and Jaden Faynor (who carries on his dad’s interest in dirt biking and souping up lawnmowers). Neil also leaves behind his brother Charlie Bielby (Lisa), his step-father Jim Knecht, and his momma Trisha Easson.
Jim: He was the most generous person I have ever met.
Momma: you are missed sweetie. I carried you under my heart for 9 months. Now I carry you in in my heart forever.
Neil loved us and never failed to let us know it.
We thank the ICU staff at KBR Hospital, especially Dr. Mountain and Chris. They were tremendous. A celebration of life is to be held at a later date. We are overwhelmed by the support and love that we have received from friends. Thank you all.