Dave passed away on February 27, 2026, after a courageous six-year battle with cancer. Born on January 2, 1964, in North Sydney, Cape Breton, he lived a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep, enduring commitment to his family and friends.

Dave’s world revolved around his loving wife, Shelley, and his children, Breton (Chelsea) and Anna, who were his greatest pride and joy. He shared 33 wonderful years of marriage with Shelley, building a warm and welcoming home where everyone felt like family. Whether cheering Breton at the rink or supporting Anna at her Highland dance competitions, Dave was always present when it mattered most. Nothing brought him greater joy than watching his children chase their dreams and grow into the careers they worked so hard to build. He was endlessly proud of the paths they chose and the people they became.

Dave will be forever cherished by his siblings, Debi (Bill) Freeborne, Bruce MacNeil, Elaine (Bill) MacLean, Lloyd MacNeil, and Joanne MacNeil—with whom he shared a lifetime of laughter, support, and love. He was blessed with many wonderful years alongside his parents, Rose and Mike McNeil, whose guidance and care helped shape the man he became. He now rests peacefully reunited with his beloved parents and his dear brother, Michael.

Dave also shared a special and lasting bond with Shelley’s family and will be lovingly remembered by his mother- and father-in-law, Lorraine and Roger Guyaux; his sister-in-law, Shauna (Jackie) Kavanaugh; and his brother-in-law, Roger (Beth) Guyaux. He held a special place in his heart for his nine nephews and two nieces, sharing countless laughs and memories with them and their spouses, as well as his two grand-nieces and three grand-nephews, who brought him immense joy.

A lifelong fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Dave rarely missed a chance to cheer them on, especially his favourite, Wendel Clark, number 17. Hockey nights, lively conversations, and shared cheers were among his happiest moments.

A proud graduate of Memorial High School and St. Francis Xavier University, Dave loved sharing stories of his school days and the lifelong friendships he formed. After earning his Education degree, he devoted his career to guiding young lives as Vice Principal of Churchill Academy, leading with kindness, integrity and making a lasting difference in countless students’ and families’ lives.

As one half of “Nort Side Macaniks,” Dave enjoyed tinkering with cars—often joking that more beers were shared than repairs completed. He loved being a part of any and all social gatherings, telling stories, the family’s annual “FFF” (Forced Family Fun) trips, and creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Dave had a way of lighting up every room with his kindness, quick wit, and easygoing nature. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures and treasured nothing more than time with family and friends. Loved beyond words and missed beyond measure, his laughter, stories, and memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honour Dave’s memory to make a donation to Churchill Academy, a school he was deeply proud to serve.

Donations can be made on the school’s website at https://churchillacademy.ca or by calling 902-446-3410.

The family is deeply grateful for the exceptional care, compassion, and dedication Dave received throughout his illness. Special thanks to family physician Dr. Robert Scovil, Oncologist Dr. Erin Morgan, Oncology nurse Wavey, Palliative care nurse Meagan Farmer and the team, and the incredible nurses of VON. Your professionalism and support brought comfort and dignity to Dave and meant more to the family than words can express.

A Celebration of Dave’s Life will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Glen Arbour Golf Course, 40 Club House Lane, Hammonds Plains, NS. Family and friends are invited to drop in anytime between 1:00–4:00 p.m. to raise a toast and share their favourite stories as we remember a man who touched so many lives.