Neil Finlayson of Sicamous, BC, passed away on September 4, 2016 due to complications of melanoma. Neil was born August 25, 1938, and raised in Sicamous by his parents, Roy and Vera, with his brothers, Reid and Lloyd. He moved to the lower mainland in the 1950s working for Standard Oil for 5 years, and then for the Forestry for the next 35. He retired back to Sicamous.
Neil slept little, watched very little TV, and spent his spare time immersed in hobbies. He read nonfiction, mostly scientific, political and military, as well as science fiction and classic fiction. He built and flew model airplanes, as well as attaining a pilot’s license and flying full-sized planes for fun. While working in his shop he listened to a high frequency radio and made money reporting distress calls he overheard around the world. As an amateur astronomer, Neil studied and photographed galaxies and celestial events. An avid photographer, he built a dark room and processed his own photos. Neil enjoyed travelling and made many road trips throughout the Canada and the US.
In his retirement Neil was an active member of the Sicamous and District Museum and Historic Society. He enjoyed working with the other members archiving and displaying the history of the area.
Neil leaves fond memories for his family, brother Reid (Janette) Finlayson of Malakwa, sister in law, Sharon Finlayson of Coquitlam, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and one great great nephew.
A service for friends and family will be held on Saturday morning, October 8th at 10 am at the Graveside in Eagle Valley & District Cemetery, Solsqua, with family and friends sharing tributes.
On line condolences may be sent to Neil’s obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com
Arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Home and Crematorium, Salmon Arm.