Neil Eldon Farries

Neil Eldon Farries, aged 80 of Saskatoon, passed away peacefully at Royal University Hospital November 23, 2023, from complications of diabetes. Neil was born in Vancouver, British Columbia to Harcourt Oswald Farries and Beatrice Ellen Rose Farries (nee Levere) on March 13, 1943. The family moved to Saskatoon where Neil attended Wilson School and City Park Collegiate.

Neil moved to California in the early 1960s and joined the United States Marine Corp. During his service, he served a number of deployments, including a tour in Vietnam. Upon discharge from the Marine Corp, he continued to live in California, where he met his wife Debra, whom he married in 1974. Neil and Debra moved to Saskatoon in 1975.

Neil was an avid golfer, and Neil and Deb spent many summers on golfing holidays. It was not unusual for them to travel to the US or B.C on a whirlwind weekend getaway. One of his favourite places to visit was California to see his family that resided there. No matter where he was, those around him could be entertained with his storytelling and zest for life. He also loved dining out, especially for breakfast.

Neil had a way of looking at any situation he encountered and seeing an opportunity to turn it into a business. He owned and operated several different small businesses and franchises during his lifetime. His devotion to detail and strong work ethic was carried over to his service to the Shriners, with whom he was involved for many years until his health deteriorated.

Neil is survived by his wife of nearly 49 years Debra, sister Joan Wallace, brother Brian Farries, sister-in-law Peggy Farries; nephews Robert Farries, Eric Farries, and Jeff Popkin; nieces Gwen Melanson and Julie Austin. He was predeceased by his brother Bruce Farries.

Special thanks to the management and staff of Baraka Care Homes, who provided Neil with exceptional care.