Neil G. MacKenzie
December 7, 1945 ~ December 5, 2019
Neil Grant MacKenzie, 73, a lifelong Springfield resident, died Thursday morning, December 5, 2019 at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield following a lengthy illness.
Born in Springfield on December 7, 1945, he was the son of the late Angus and Irma (Spear) MacKenzie. He was a graduate of Springfield Technical High School and American International College.
Neil worked alongside his parents in his family’s business, MacKenzie Vault, Inc., manufacturing cremation urns. He owned and operated the business for thirty years, proudly working alongside his son until his retirement.
He was a member of the Valley Athletic Club at the Springfield YMCA where he loved playing racquetball and tennis.
He leaves his loving and devoted son, Scott Wallingford MacKenzie and his husband Timothy of Longmeadow, his grandson, Maxton MacKenzie, his brother, Bruce MacKenzie and his wife Louise of Santa Barbara, CA, his former wife, Barbara MacKenzie-Rodgers and her husband Robert of East Longmeadow, and several nieces and nephews.
Neil’s family will receive friends and family on Tuesday, December 10, 2019 from 5PM-6:45PM in C.R. Lyons & Sons Funeral Directors, 28 Elm St., Danvers. A funeral service will follow at 7PM. Family and friends are also welcome at a memorial service and reception honoring Neil on Wednesday, December 11, 2019 at 5:30PM at The Student Prince Restaurant, 8 Fort St., Springfield. Donations in Neil’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 309 Waverley Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452.
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A kind and gentle soul is now free of all restrictions and able to play racquetball and have a beer once again. đź’™
Sent a gift in memory of Neil G. MacKenzie
Neil gently grilling flank steak 🥩 at Colony Drive home filled with friends and family is one of our loving memories—Wayne and Vivian
Scott, it was obvious to anyone who saw you and your dad together that you shared a special relationship. His legacy will carry on in the work you do every day. May you find comfort in the good memories and the knowledge that you helped him feel pure, unconditional love. My love to you, Tim, Max and your entire family. – Jen Gabriel
Rest easy Neil. Love and condolences to everyone. And huge virtual hugs.
I have great memories with Neil McKenzie from all the fishing trips to the Holiday parties, we had always enjoyed each other’s company. He was a great boss but overall an amazing person who cared so much for everyone. His generosity for others will be one of the most memorable things I will forever keep in my heart. I want to give my condolences to the family and friends. May God give us all strength to get through this difficult time.
-Sergio Adon
I am forever thankful for the day I met Neil. I started off as one of his caretakers 4 years ago. Little did I know that this caretaker was not only meeting her resident at the time but also her best friend. This caretaker was not only meeting her best friend but also gaining a addition to her family! A lot might think that I made a huge impact on Neil’s life but the truth in the matter is He made a tremendous impact on mine. He helped me overcome my fears, learn my strengths and always gave me the best advice being a business man himself to steer me in the right direction of my very own path! I remember the day he was moved closer to home and I was so nervous to drive the highways but couldn’t imagine myself being away from my best friend. I knew I had to overcome my fear because I just couldn’t imagine Me not being by his side. I didn’t know how to do it and I knew my gps wasn’t the best but some how after a couple of reroutings I found my way back into his life and without a doubt I was able to hear once again those words “ That’s my best friend Heather Santiago” I want to thank Neil for sooo many things but unfortunately the list can go on and on and I probably would not have enough space but one thing I do know is he loved his family and friends! I had numerous conversations with Neil to the point I felt as though I knew him a lifetime. He loved his son Scott very very much and I remember how excited he was when told he was going to be a grandfather. He couldn’t wait to meet Maxton! I remember the first day Neil held his grandson. Neil turned to me and said “ Where do u think the baby got his looks from?” I simply replied “Scott” … Neil said “ Of course me” Neil always knew how to shine his humor in any occasion. Barbie to him was his lifeline. I never met 2 people that had such a connection. Neil would tell me sooo many things and spots they hung out including one of them being student prince he always referred it to “ The Fort” where he had tons of memories with one of his good friends Ziggy. He always mentioned his long life friend Bob Stone to the point I ended up adding Bob to my contacts because Neil always wanted to reach out to him. The list goes on and so do my memories. My dearest friend Neil I just want you to know that I love you and I will never forget what you have given me! You have given me so much and I promise to keep our memories alive! For those who don’t know me let me introduce myself… I’m Neil’s best friend, his family through a different family, a caretaker but not just any caretaker… in the words of Neil… My name is
“Heather Santiago” xoxo
Scott, so sorry to hear about the passing of your dad, my thoughts and prayers are with you and for family during this painful time.
I came to know Neil I’ve the last year, and have told you directly how great your father was. He was always in a good mood, never complained, and was full of sarcasm. I truly enjoyed working with him and trying my best at keeping him going physically. Many prayers to you and your family!
Scott, Barbara, Tim and Max: please accept my prayers and sympathies on the passing of your father. Your loving tribute to him is the testament of the loving and good man he was. Indeed you were well served by him and he loved the good son you were.
I have such warm memories of Neil. His dry,witty, and sarcastic sense of humor was so wonderfully entertaining. You could simply look across the room and see him crack a smile and all you felt was his gentleness and love.
Scott,
My sympathy on the loss of your father.
Mike Devaney
Scott and Family,
Sending you peace, and strength during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Angela Cyr
Scott and Family,
My sincerest condolences to you and your extended family on the passing of your father. Blessings and prayers to you in the coming days.
Michelle Peterson – Kelco Supply Co.