James "Neil" Robertson

James “Neil” Robertson

May 8, 1949-June 21, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Neil Robertson at the age of 77, after a battle with cancer.

He leaves behind his wife of 39 years, Karen Robertson of Sault Ste. Marie; his daughter, Sarah Remillard (Shawn) of Sturgeon Falls; and his son, Jamie Robertson (Erica) of London. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren, Shaun (Brianne), Jesse, and Kelsy Remillard; and Eska, Rio, and Svea Robertson. He is also survived by his brother, Bill; nieces, Nancy Machant (Darryl) and Yvonne Telford; and nephews, Mark Robertson (Jennifer) and John Telford, as well as many other grandnieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, James “Jim” and Lilian Robertson; and parents-in-law, Robert and Agnes Malcolm.

Neil was raised in Milton and moved to Sault Ste. Marie where he spent most of his life at Sunnyside Beach building his community of friends who became family. While a certified electrician by trade, Neil was truly a jack-of-all trades who could build or fix almost anything from boats to houses. His days were spent in the garden tending to his vegetables and in the garage working on projects, including building furniture and toys for his grandkids. The garage door was always open, and Neil’s garage became the local “watering hole” where he happily entertained visitors with music, beer, games, and lively conversations, stories, and life lessons. Besides his family, being surrounded by his friends and neighbours was his greatest joy.

It was a privilege to call Neil our husband, dad, grandpa, and friend. We will miss his stories, sarcastic/dad humour, and sage advice on everything from home repairs, to garden tricks, to both big and small life decisions.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Neil’s name to The Humane Society of Sault Ste. Marie would be appreciated. Where possible, please find a way to donate blood, plasma, or platelets. In true Neil fashion, a garage-party-style celebration of life will follow at a later date.

Please join us in a Celebration of Life on July 18th, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The garage style party will be held at 461 Sunnyside Beach Road, Sault Ste. Marie.

Professional cremation services provided by Simple Wishes of the North and Crystal Crematorium.

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