Neal Robert Boyce

It is with great sorrow that the family of Neal Robert Boyce of Roblin, MB announce his unexpected passing on Thursday, March 25, 2021 at the age of 74.

Neal was born to Kenneth and Gertrude (nee McGinnis) Boyce on January 2, 1947 in Russell, MB. He attended school in Makaroff and later in Roblin.

He met his wife Jeanette (nee Makelki) in 1972 and married in March of 1974. Together they had two daughters, Lori May born in 1975 and Christa Ruth born in 1980. In 2005 he welcomed his first grandson, Lucas Robert Christopher Cels. In 2008, he welcomed a second grandson, Parker John Joyner Cels. In 2010, his first granddaughter, Brielle May Matz Wychopen and in 2013, another grandson, Marek Michael Robert Wychopen.  

Neal was a hard worker and every dollar he had, he earned.  He worked at many different jobs through out his life. At the age of 21, he obtained his Class 1 license and this was the beginning of a very long career in trucking. He was extremely proud of obtaining his 1 million miles from Trans X in 1999 and his 2 million miles in 2005. Neal loved to farm. He started farming his own land in 1979 and continued to do so until his retirement in 2015. He continued to drive grain trucks and harrow for other farmers in his retirement. Neal was known for his sense of humor and witty remarks. He loved to visit with everyone and always had some interesting story to tell.  He wasn’t shy and would make friends wherever he went. His smile and laughter will be missed.  

Neal was predeceased by his parents, Gertrude (1975) and Kenneth (2013) and his mother and father in law, Ruth Makelki (1994) and Mark Makelki (2005).  As well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Jeanette and his daughters, Lori (Brad) Wychopen of La Salle, MB and Christa (Chris) Cels of Brandon, MB.  He also leaves four grandchildren who he adored, Lucas, Parker, Brielle and Marek.  He leaves behind his three brothers and their wives, Earl (Margaret), Larry (Dawna) and Kelly (Twila).  As well as his brother and sister in laws, Larry Makelki, Leroy (Pam) Makelki, Keith (Terri) Makelki, Irene (Gary) Von Sprecken and Sherry Brucks all of Alberta.  He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

Viewing for friends took place on Wednesday, March 31, 2021 from 7pm - 9pm from Sneath-Strilchuk's Roblin Chapel in Roblin.

Due to Covid19 restrictions a private family service was held on Thursday, April 1, 2021 at 11:00 am from Sneath-Strilchuk Roblin Chapel in Roblin, Manitoba with Pastor Randy Moffit officiating. Interment followed in Makaroff and District Cemetery in Roblin, MB.  Pallbearers were Wade Boyce, Tony Kreutner, Kevin Kreutner, Walter Hammond, Guy Hammond, Don Scribner. The service was live streamed and you may access it by going to Sneath Strilchuk Funeral Home's website homepage and clicking on the Facebook icon. You do not require a Facebook account to participate. 

If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Neal’s memory to the Makaroff and District Cemetery - Box 744, Roblin, MB, R0L 1P0 or the Life and Arts Centre - Box 1513, Roblin, MB  R0L 1P0.
 

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