Remembering Neil James Hurtubise

Neil James Hurtubise, a gentle giant of a man whose heart was as expansive as his community footprint, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 18th, 2026, just days shy of his 91st birthday, reuniting at last with his beloved soulmate and wife of over 60 years, Patricia.

Born on September 26th, 1935, to the late Charles and Claire Hurtubise, Neil lived a life rooted in deep devotion to his family and neighbors. He was the loving father of Elizabeth Anderson (David), Michael (Rose), and Anne Marie Wilkie (Larry), and a cherished brother to Joe Hurtubise (Helen), Bernard Hurtubise (Aileen), and Margaret Arnold, as well as a special niece who held a unique and tender place in his heart, Christine Galloway.

To his family, he was simply Papa—a title he wore with immense pride and joy. He adored his grandchildren, Andrew (Aimee), Malorie (Clayton), Niklas (Brittany), Emelie (Daniel), Mitchell (Percy), and Hannah (Lukas), and was wonderfully blessed to be a great-grandpa to 11 beautiful children who brought endless light to his later years.

Neil’s life was defined by quiet service and a steadfast commitment to others. As a retired OPP Constable, he viewed his work not just as a profession, but as a calling to be a true champion of the underdog. He spent his days quietly trying to help and redirect those who had made a mistake or fallen on hard times, always looking for the good in people. That spirit of giving extended far beyond his badge; Neil was a long-time fixture of the Canadian Blood Donor Clinic, an active member of the Knights of Columbus, a CYO hockey coach, a pillar of the Orillia bowling association, and a dedicated volunteer in countless other capacities.

A man who made friends wherever he went, Neil walked through life leaving a trail of warmth. His family extends their deepest gratitude to the crew at George’s Restaurant, the wonderful staff at Metro, Linda at Tiffins, Don McIsaac, Dave Osborne, Nick Baranik, his buddy and favourite chauffeur, Devo, his "girlfriend" across the road, Bianca, as well as his other "long term girlfriend", Jenny-lynn, and the Marinakos family at Tops, for always showing him such genuine kindness and making him feel like the big deal he truly was.

Heartfelt thanks are also extended to the compassionate staff at OSMH, and to his dedicated family physicians, Dr. Ben and Elizabeth McNaull, who cared for him so well over the years.

True to the humble family man he was, Neil wouldn't want grand platitudes spoken in his honour. If you wish to do anything today to remember him, just be kind. Smile at the people who walk by, and always remain humble.

Relatives and friends will be received at Carson Funeral Homes L. Doolittle Chapel on Sunday September 27, 2026 from 2-4 & 7-9 P.M. Then to the Church of the Guardian Angels for Mass of Christian Burial on Monday September 28, 2026 at 2 o’clock. Cremation to follow. Parish Prayers will be said in the Doolittle Chapel Sunday evening at 6:45 P.M.

In lieu of donations, please take a moment to go to a local Blood Donor Clinic, and donate in his honour. He was still here because of it. If you're unable to do so, Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital is who gave him the last half of his life in 1981 that we are forever grateful for. Show love and support to them for that alone.