In a lot of ways I found it hard to find something to say about my grandfather, David Neegan. What can you say to honour a man who lived 97 years on earth. I know for myself, I am proud to be named after this great man.
On December 24, 1906, north of Hearst begun the life of David. Born of parents Alice Neegan and David McCullum. Little is known of his father but the fate of many including myself could have come to a tragic end if David left us to live in Toronto when he was a child. Through the efforts of grandpa John Neegan, he stayed.
Raised in the old ways, he mastered many crafts and skills that very few people know today. One of those skills is the mastery of the canoe. Without effort, he flew down rapids with the grace of a humming bird. Amazing as that was, the same effortlessness was witnessed going up rapids. What would be deemed impossible by two canoeist was accomplished by one man. With his pole in hand, canoe filled to the brim, he traveled up rapids easily as going down.
As a young man, he knew the importance of an education. Due to circumstances beyond his control, he was unable to go to school. That did not stop David. He taught himself arithmetic, read and write. I know that if he was given an opportunity that we all take granted today, he would have done wonders.
In his twilight years, he never stopped. His strength shone through like a beacon of light. Not old age, fire, snow storm and truck could stop this man.
David Neegan was a man who loved us all. When the Neegan's, McCready's, Gagnon's, Frazer's and so forth would visit, his eyes would light up with the joy of the world. He would roll out the red carpet for us all. He is now united with his loving wife, Christiana and the people of old. His seeds are well rooted and legacy ever lasting. We love you, grandpa, father, uncle and friend.
Rest in peace
