With heavy hearts, we are saddened to be sharing the news of Niall’s recent passing. Following a magical final chapter that included October tour dates in Newfoundland, a meaningful birthday celebration in November, and a joy filled Christmas spent with family and friends, Niall shared a few additional quiet days and his last sunset, embraced in the love and care of his wife, Leslie and dear son, Pierce. On the eve of December 27th, at St. Michael's Hospital, Niall passed peacefully with those he loved most at his side.

Niall is deeply missed and survived by his loving partner of 26 years, Leslie and his adoring son, Pierce [ Pierce's mother, Celeste]. He will be further missed by his mother, Una, brother, Luke (Charlotte; nephew Winston), sister, Wanda (Ken), sister-in-law, Lois, sister-in-law, Marcia (Jason) and brother-in-law, Ekem (Danya). Niall is now reunited with his father, Terry Mellors, stepfather, Bill Lougheed, mother-in-law, Patsy Jordan, and his sweet puppy, Freddie.

Niall embraced life as a forgiving, humourous, silly, playful, curious, and understanding soul. At his core, he was the very definition of kindness. He loved football, camping, blazing campfires, sitting on a beach, and capturing sunsets. His Newfie gift for gab and reporter level skill for interviewing people while also making them feel at ease made him a dear friend to many. He loved to be in the company of others to engage & connect, and was often the life of the party.

Though his official work life took him from hospitality recruiter to courier, playing live music was always his passion and goal. His rock star dreams very nearly coming true with his band Smeer. From his teens until his final tour just weeks ago, Niall was happiest sitting behind a drum kit and supplying the steady pulse for a vast array of bands. A highly skilled, largely self-taught musician, his passion for the music he loved was experienced by anyone who heard or saw him play.

Niall was heavily involved in the local Toronto music scene, playing gigs and jamming regularly over the last 30 years. While rocking out, he developed and nurtured many meaningful relationships and contributed something special to the music community that will be sorely missed.

Niall had a special enthusiasm for life right to the very end. If you were around him, you experienced it. Although his absence will be felt deeply, his bright spirit and love have made a home in all of our hearts. We will treasure the time we had with him and carry him with us always.

A private service was held on Saturday, January 17th, and the live stream video recording is now available to watch under the "Media" tab on this memorial page.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life Benefit Concert organized by his music community, which will be held on Sunday, January 25th, 2-10pm at The Rockpile (5555 Dundas St. W., Etobicoke, ON). Tickets are available via their website.

Online condolences, stories and photos can be shared under the Guestbook, My Story and Photos tabs above or by tagging Niall Mellors on Facebook.