Rachel: The front porch on Caroline
Dad had many happy places in the world, but one of the best was the front porch on Caroline Avenue. Even as his health declined, the porch was the social hub of the Collishaw household. Neighbours waved or stopped by for a visit. Family and dogs visited, or he just enjoyed the days in the sun or the shade. It was always our spot for a family photo, to commemorate milestones or gatherings.
So sad to hear that Neil has passed away. I will be forever grateful to him for inviting me to join the illustrious group at the Long Range Health Planning Branch at Health and Welfare in March of 1978. It was my first job as health economist. This group was responsible for drafting the Lalonde Report, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Years later, while I was at the Heart and Stroke Foundation, we had a chance to reconnect to move the yardsticks forward on his lifelong pursuit to fight tobacco.
I will be forever grateful to Neil for his mentorship and leadership. Bill Tholl O.C.
I am grateful that we got to be among those who visited with uncle Neil on the front porch several times over the last few years. During one visit the kids were fascinated by a spider spinning its web. I also remember him cooking up an omelette with enormous fresh mushrooms from the garden during one visit. I also have good memories of staying in the house on Caroline over the years, at one point watching different Canadian comedians with uncle Neil. I will miss uncle Neil’s quiet warmth and humour, and the way that he was always supportive and encouraging of us. I am also conscious that he was a man with a mission, tireless in his determination to make the world a better place through smoking prevention, something that never seemed far from his mind.
I often walked by from Huron, wondering if Barb and Neil would be out. One evening a few years ago I passed by with my daughter in law. We had a lovely visit. So sorry to hear of your loss. I knew Neil had been ill, but not how much. He was indeed someone who made an important impact in the world. Good on him
Ah yes…your front porch on Caroline. Passed by that porch hundreds of times, well known, well loved, as were its inhabitants. When we moved to Caroline in 1984, your dad and mom welcomed us with open hearts. Last Friday when visiting my daughter, I was sad to see the sign on the lawn, the empty front porch. Your dad will missed by so many, and I loved your heartfelt story about the special and deep impact his support had on your journey. My deepest sympathies and condolences to you, your mom and all the family.