Despite knowing it was coming, this news is very sad indeed.
I attended a number of meetings with Health Canada, PSC and other colleagues over the years on various issues o/b of Ontario health charities. Neil was a constant voice of reason, of history and of the real forward steps that had to be taken, whatever the specific issue. He never lost patience in the face of bureaucratic obfuscation (well, almost never!), and had a perspective informed by history, the latest research, and his constant work on innovative solutions.
It was an honour to participate with him. When our situation in Ontario would periodically become problematic, we could always count on his ability to inspire new approaches and ways of thinking.
His combination of knowledge, innovative and progressive ideas, and just plain obstinate determination to keep fighting one of the world’s evilest industries inspired me for years.
Adieu my friend, your legacy lives! Our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara and your daughters, and with your longtime brilliant colleague Cynthia.