Honouring a Mighty Neighbour’s unsung legacy

“You didn’t have to ask Neil for help. If he saw you needed assistance, he was right there. Often with a smile and encouragement.”

Kind words from Peter Burns, remembering his neighbour Neil Talbot. Peter nominated Neil posthumously, as part of the City’s Mighty Neighbours: Summer Edition program. The initiative recognizes and celebrates the unsung heroes who make our neighbourhoods warm and welcoming.

Neil passed away in 2022 at the age of 75. Even in his final months, he remained the go-to person for community support. And the support wasn’t confined to his immediate neighbours.

“It included people that lived blocks from his home, or even across the city,” says Peter. “It didn't matter the time of day or type of emergency. Neil could be counted on.”

Neil’s varied experience and knowledge was a welcomed asset. He helped one elderly neighbour build a shed beneath her back porch. (And even threw in a couple of bird feeders!) He spent all day helping another neighbour bail and mop following a basement flood. And when Peter’s sprinkler system went haywire, it was Neil who taught him how to fix it. Neil’s willingness to lend a free hand was impressive enough in its own right. But it was his selflessness Peter remembers most.

“His thrill was passing on knowledge. No return favours or other gratuities were expected. He was simply happy to help.”

Neil was married to his wife Joan for 55 years. She fondly recalls his love of family and how he always put them first. She says Neil’s love of community was also hereditary.

“His love of helping people came from his Dad, who was always helping people.”

Neil loved animals and was a longtime volunteer with the Lethbridge and District Humane Society. He could often be found walking his neighbourhood streets with his ‘best friend’ Dexter strapped to his chest in a baby carrier.

Neil’s community spirit wasn’t only shown in tasks. He spent hours organizing and cooking backyard neighbourhood meals, always with a smile on his face.

“Everyone on the street got to meet each other and socialize together,” recalls Peter. “He knew that people who socialize with one another are more likely to resolve issues.”

Peter is happy to see his companion celebrated as a community role model. And while he misses Neil a lot, he knows his legacy lives on.

“I was proud to call Neil my friend. If angels exist, he is among them now.”

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