MACDOUGALL, Neil A. - With tremendous sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Neil, at home in Toronto, on February 20, 2021, at the age of 93.
He will be remembered by his kind and gentle spirit, quick wit and daily appreciation for those around him.
Neil is survived by Shirley (nee Langdon), his co-pilot and devoted wife of 63 years, loving children Laura (partner Philip), and Colin (wife Elena), and grandchildren Carlos, Colin Jr. (partner Kaitlin), and great-grandson Matteo and Mrs. Soldi. Born in Calgary, October 17, 1927, to William and Gladys Macdougall (nee Bowring).
Neil earned his chemical engineering degree from the University of British Columbia in 1950 and an MCom from the University of Toronto.
In 1957, he was recruited to lead the Technical Service Council, to stop the "brain drain" of skilled engineers leaving to work in the US.
For more than 35 years, Neil led the organization, and along with his dedicated team, grew the organization into a national presence, well regarded and a pioneer in relocation counselling and outplacement services.
With the organization in a strong position, he retired to spend more time on his many interests. Neil and Shirley learned to fly together in 1964 leading to many wonderful friendships, and adventures.
Also, a glider pilot and instructor, he achieved his Diamond Badge from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale Number 50 in Canada. A prolific writer, he penned a monthly column in Design Engineering for 34 years.
His articles in Canadian Aviation gave him the opportunity to fly new types of aircraft and meet many new and interesting people.
Neil's aircraft photography was sourced for many articles, magazine covers, books and publications with his Canadian collection now residing in the Library and Archives Canada.
Neil generously provided advice and support to those needing assistance of any kind. While wintering in Texas during retirement, he served with the Texas Squadron of the US Air Force Auxiliary retiring after 23 years of service, with the rank of lieutenant colonel, he was awarded the Civil Air Patrol Award of Merit.
Neil's legacy will live on through the many lives he touched every day, throughout his life. He lived a life guided by values and was a gentleman in the true sense of the word.
To share your stories and to learn of details of the celebration of life to be held at a later date, email
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to The Bomber Command Museum of Canada, The Owl Foundation or Leaside Presbyterian Church.
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