It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely death of Neil, our much-loved brother, uncle, and friend. We fondly remember an outgoing and cheerful boy who had many childhood adventures with his identical twin brother, Colin, often involving the substitution of one for the other in circumstances where it was agreed to be advantageous. He was educated at Monterey Elementary, Glenlyon School, and graduated from St Michael’s University School. He found his calling in the hospitality industry, eventually becoming the co-owner of The Beagle Pub and other businesses on Cook Street.
Neil was a highly intelligent, sensitive, courteous, affable, and engaging person. He had a memory like a steel trap, a joke for every occasion, and a gift for putting people at their ease. He gave generously to many charitable organizations and was always available to help those in need. He was blessed with a community of faithful and caring friends who have rallied around in recent days to comfort us with their support and encouragement. We have been fortified, as well, by the outpouring of sympathy from our large, wonderful family across Canada, and in Scotland, England, Northern Ireland, the U.S. and South Africa.
Neil was predeceased by his loving parents, Alastair and Janet, and leaves behind his siblings Shauna (Michael), Robin (Leslie), Islay (Iain) and Colin, his nieces Michaela, Jillian, Natalie, Rachel, Hannah and Jane, and his nephews Callum and Alastair. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A celebration of his life will be organised on a date to be determined.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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31 Responses
So many fond memories from SMU days and his visit to Alberta one summer. He and Colin were great friends and the years since we graduated and parted have gone so quickly. Far too young and so hard for those left behind
Surprised to see Neil gone so soon. We went to school together for 8 years. RIP
Colin and Baird family,
I send my deepest sympathies to you for this immeasurable loss.
Katharine Robinson
My heart broke when I heard the news of Neil’s passing. He, and all of you, have been in my thoughts so often in the days since. Neil is entwined with so many of my childhood memories, both at Monterey and through high school. He was an amazing friend – always kind, good-humoured and genuine. Any visit I had with Neil in the decades since were filled with stories and laughter. He had such a great laugh. Neil was so proud of his family and eager to share happy news about his siblings, nieces and nephews. I hope you can take some comfort in knowing how many people adored and will miss your brother. I will remember him always. Please accept my love and sincere condolences.
Dear Baird family,
I send sympathy and condolences on the loss of your brother and uncle. I know that you will support and comfort each other in true Baird fashion. I have the fondest memories of Christmas Eve parties on Island Road with everyone singing and making music together! Neil, it was a pleasure to see you on Gabriola in September. Please know that I am thinking of you. Hugs all around.
Shawn
Deepest condolences to the Baird family.
You are all a testament to Neil’s kind spirit carrying on.
Roger&Jane Bailey and family
Douglas Parker
Shauna, Robin, Islay and Colin,
So shocked to read this. I am very moved reading through the other submissions as it has brought many of my fondest memories of growing up in South Oak Bay and so many familiar names. Every summer when we return to Victoria the Beagle Pub is a must. It won’t be the same. Words can never express the sense of loss but you are all in my thoughts.
Too loved in life to be forgotten in death.
Anne Iain Jon & C ❤️
I am deeply saddened to read of Neil’s passing as I recall the many happy (sometimes frustrating) hours spent coaching him and his Bays United teammates on the soccer field and in the gym – many, many seasons ago. The team may not have had a lot of success (or even a good coach) but we had fun.
I have such fond memories of those early days; we were all learning.
Condolences to all and especially Colin the other half of my ‘double trouble’ of the day.
Some stars shine so brightly, their afterglow lingers forever. Neil was a hilarious classmate in our Glenlyon days, and I smile whenever I think of him. My condolences to that amazing team — the Baird siblings — plus all of the innumerable friends whose lives Neil grandly illuminated. Lucky us to have known him.