Neil Edward Rysstad
Sunrise: Sept 03, 1957
Sunset: Feb 12, 2015
Neil passed away on February 12th, 2015 in Prince Rupert General
Hospital after struggling in the last few years with many health
problems. Neil was the 4th of six sons
of Maxine and Olav Rysstad, who, like all his brothers, began fishing with his dad at a very early age. As a third generation fisherman, Neil had many great years on the water. He was one of the best guys you could ever crew with.
Family and friends will have many good memories of Neil to share. His good qualities never diminished, he retained his gentle and non-judgmental soul throughout his struggles. He loved words and music. He was spiritual in his own way and for his own reasons. He was proud of his Norwegian and Metis heritage, and especially proud of his son and granddaughters.
He was loved, and he will be missed more than he could ever
imagine.
Neil is predeceased by his mother, Maxine (Kerrighan)
Rysstad (2003) and his eldest brother, Ole Rysstad, lost at sea on the Haro Straits (1972). Also predeceased by Uncle Torgier Rysstad
(Rosemary) and Aunt Tarjer (Rysstad)/Ted Roesch. He is
survived by his son Aaron Alcott and three granddaughters,
Kayana, Emily and Anika all of Armstrong, BC; his father, Olav
Rysstad; brother Tom (Jean), niece Maggie (Burnaby) and
nephew Dylan (Victoria); brother Dave, (White Rock) nephew Dean
(Victoria) and niece Brittany (Vancouver); brother Norman; brother Alan (Trudy), niece Alana, nephews Ole and Joran; also survived by Uncle Knut (Iris) Rysstad (Saanich); Aunt Pat (Kerrighan) Neibergall (Bert); Aunt Donna (Kerrighan) Guglielmin (Len) (Toronto); Uncle
Barney (Lee) Kerrighan (Medicine Hat) and many cousins.
Although Neil wanted no service or ceremony, the family plans a gathering at some time in the summer to honour Neil’s life.
The family thanks Dr. Brown and Dr. Coetzee, and all the Doctors and nurses who have cared for Neil in these last years.