We are deeply saddened and shocked to announce the passing of Larry Ronald Neal, 77, of Toronto, ON.

Larry passed away on March 14th, 2025 at Michael Garron Hospital in East York, ON with his wife, his four children, his daughter-in-law (Kim) and his grandson (Ailin) by his side. After completing treatment for Lymphoma, Larry enjoyed some healthy months with his friends and family before falling ill and being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He faced the last few weeks of his life with strength, determination and love. We would like to thank the kind and caring staff at Michael Garron Hospital for taking care of Larry. We would also like to thank the staff at Temmy Latner for an attentive and speedy attempt for at-home palliative care.

Larry was born October 11th, 1947 in Toronto, ON to Ronald and Doris Neal. Being the middle child and their only son, having four sisters (Charlotte, Gloria, Nancy and Corrine) has made for endless joyful, heartwarming and hilarious family memories and stories. Gatherings with his sisters, nieces and nephews and extended family at functions like "the Neal Deal" and trips to the family farm have extended the love of Larry’s family home down for generations.

After the birth of Larry’s first two children, Carey, his only son and his first-born daughter Laurie, Larry was introduced to his loving wife Ruth Anne. They were quickly married and built their family home in East York with the help of good friends and neighbours. Larry and Ruth made sure their two daughters, Denise and Andrea, were given the best opportunity to create meaningful and loving relationships with Larry’s first-born children.

Larry’s seven grandchildren, Shaelynne, Kelsie, Callan, Nathan, Reese, Zach and Ailin will miss him for their own special reasons but will always appreciate his knack for finding them the perfect gift or seeing him in the crowd at their events as their number one fan.

Larry made many long-time friends playing and coaching baseball. He only missed one season of his “old-timer’s” league while receiving chemotherapy and planned to return to the field this summer. After over ten years playing poker with his buddies, they are holding a seat for him to play his favourite game Kings and Little Ones. Larry was also lucky to have been introduced to Ruth Anne's friends, the infamous 'Grey Cup Crew', who quickly knew he was a perfect fit.

Larry was a strong, logical, loving, and supportive husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother and brother-in-law. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and everyone who was lucky enough to meet him.

A celebration of life will be held on May 25, 2025. Please come and celebrate Larry with us between 1pm-4pm.
Location: Royal Canadian Legion: 1240 Woodbine Avenue, Toronto, ON M4C 4E4