Neil J. Booth
Neil J. Booth passed away peacefully on June 19th , 2024, one day shy of his 88th birthday after defying the odds for more than two years against various serious physical ailments including cancer. He spent some of his final hours following his passion for sports by cheering on the Edmonton Oilers in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Finals at St. Luke’s Place in Cambridge. Neil was a beloved father, father-in-law, grandad and friend to so many who crossed his path. He brought joy and love to all who knew him with care, compassion and an incredible sense of humour.
Neil was born in Hillingdon, England in June of 1936 to parents John and Lillian Booth. He emigrated to Canada with his family in 1952, leading to his fondly remembered introduction to corn on the cob as the S.S. Samaria docked in Quebec City. Following his first wife Angelika and his firstborn son Perry, Neil spent a brief but significant period in Germany. While he was not there for long, he cultivated an affinity for the German language and culture which he retained throughout his life.
Neil thoroughly enjoyed life and all it had to offer, from travel to sports to cars, but more than anything his family. Neil is predeceased by his parents John (Jack) and Lillian (Peggy) Booth, the love of his life Joan Gordon, his first wife Angelika Reuter, and their infant daughter Kerry . He leaves behind his son Perry Booth (Joy Case); his second wife Janette Booth and their two children, Kyle (Paula) Booth and Jillian (Ryan) Bolender; and Joan’s children Kim (Mark) and Kristina (Dave) who were the admiration of his life. By far, his greatest joys were his grandchildren: Madeleine, Isabelle, Eleanor, Nicholas, Jonathan, Austin, Parker, Jared, Aislin and Brianna. He was known for his eager participation in many dance and tea parties with his “ Three Sweethearts”, as well as attending the hockey games of his grandsons. In his more recent, less mobile years, he still very much enjoyed watching videos of his grandkids’ many activities including cheer, hockey and music. Just days before his passing, he was able to spend Father’s Day with his Cambridge family poolside for a BBQ, at which he was able to savour a couple of last margaritas!
Throughout his working life, Neil engaged in a number of career paths all of which were grounded in his passion for interacting with people. Neil began work with his father at A.V. Roe Canada, assisting in the manufacture of airplanes. He would then go on to become an officer with the Metropolitan Toronto Police Force. During this time, he distinguished himself, even being featured on the front page of the Toronto Telegram for his arrest of a man armed with a rifle. His position also brought him into contact with sports history, providing plainclothes protection during Muhammed Ali’s fight with George Chuvalo, and the 1967 Stanley Cup finals (notably also the last time that the Leafs won the cup!). Following his career as a police officer, Neil made the move to a position as a private investigator with law firms in Toronto and London. Later in his life, Neil continued to work with the public, in sales, driving a taxi and airport shuttle, and finally having an important impact helping seniors attend medical appointments and get their groceries.
Neil loved to travel. He always fondly remembered his trips with Joan, his favourite travel companion. Together, they experienced many adventures including semi-regular trips to Las Vegas, a family wedding in Punta Cana and a Caribbean cruise to celebrate his 80th birthday. On his own, his 2020 vacation to Panama was a highlight. Unfortunately, in his final few years his dream of spending a winter there was derailed due to his health. He was so happy to be able to make a special visit to Calgary this past November to visit with some long-time friends.
Neil was an impassioned sports fan, most particularly a close follower of the Blue Jays and the Leafs, regularly cheering them on from home, and getting to live games whenever possible. In the NFL, he was a big Detroit Lions fan, and was excited to see their resurgence the last couple seasons. He was thrilled to get to see one last game live this past fall with family and a close friend. He was an avid horse racing fan, managing to “win big” on a couple occasions over the years.
Neil also loved his classic cars, especially Cadillacs! He was thrilled to purchase his 1993 “Caddy” a few years ago, and thoroughly enjoyed hunting down and acquiring original parts for it. He was able to attend some car shows, and even got to participate in the 2023 Canada Day Parade in Cambridge alongside his daughter Jill in her 1971 Chevy Nova.
In spite of his recent health issues Neil’s love for life and general optimism were contagious. Those that knew him well had the privilege of experiencing his friendly banter, witty humour, jovial laugh and undying passion for all the things he cared deeply about. He will be greatly missed by family and friends alike!
According to Neil’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with interment to take place at South Park Cemetery in St. Thomas.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.
Messages and condolences may be left at www.forestcitycremation.com. Please visit Neil’s obituary notice on Facebook.