Gordon McNeilly Gordon A. McNeilly, 94, of Hoosick, NY, passed away July 31, 2017, surrounded by his loving family. Gordon was born on June 22, 1923 in Bennington VT, to Alexander McNeilly of County Down, Ireland and Ida McNeilly (nee Petersen) of Karlskrone, Sweden. Gordon grew up in Hoosick, walking in the woods in spring and summer and skating in the winter. As a teenager, he worked as a groundskeeper for the Colgate Estate in Bennington. In January of 1943, he was drafted into the Army and served as a radio operator with the Battery 242 Field Artillery, and bravely fought fascist tyranny in Europe. After an honorable discharge in December 1945, Gordon explored different careers in various fields including working on the B&M railroad and as a machinist before gaining employment with Dodge Fibers (later Oak Industries). Gordon was a co-owner of McNeilly’s Greenhouse for many years, along with his sister Lillian Spendiff and his dear friends Lyman and Ruth Rudd.
Gordon and Alice McNeilly (nee Welch) were married in 1947 and had two daughters Carol Donovan (Timothy) and Kathleen White (Kevin). As children, Carol and Kathleen fondly remember family vacations to coastal Maine and other camping excursions. Gordon was a talented woodworker and practiced it as a hobby. He also enjoyed reading and maintaining the garden with Alice. Up until the last few years of his life, they went for almost daily walks together. They enjoyed traveling and spending time with their family. Gordon was a volunteer firefighter with the Hoosick Fire Department and had served as Fire Commissioner.
Gordon’s family will remember him for his stories and insight, his tranquil patience which yielded modesty and wisdom, his sense of humor, humble courage and his love for, and dedication to, his family. Though his passing has left a void, his presence is eternal and his life is celebrated by his family. His example is followed by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife and daughters he is survived by his grandchildren, Kate Henson (Eric), Michael Donovan (Sarah). Rachel Field (Zachary), Gregory White and Bryan White, and great grandchildren Wyatt, Owen, Tyler, Toby and Annabelle. Gordon was predeceased by his sister, Lillian Spendiff.
Gordon’s family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the wonderful professionals at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center and the Centers for Living and Rehabilitation. His care at CLR was exceptionally caring and compassionate, with special thanks extended to Lynne, Matthew, Kate, and Brian.
Services are private at the request of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the Town of Hoosick Rescue Squad or the Cheney Library through Mahar Funeral Home, 43 Main Street in Hoosick Falls.