Glionna, Neil

Glionna,Neil

January 26, 1955  ~  October 10, 2020

Neil Francis Glionna, of Redcliff, passed away at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary while surrounded by his loved ones on Saturday, October 10, 2020, at the age of 65 years following a courageous battle with MDS.  Neil was born on January 26, 1955, to Edmund and Catherine Glionna in Toronto, ON. After completing high school and hanging up his football equipment, Neil ventured west to Alberta.  As a young adult he quickly learned that he possessed a natural ability for sales as his career and family flourished, he became a proud father of two children, Jamie and Krystle.  While working as a salesman for Classy Imports, Neil met Suzanne Secours and after 15 years of friendship they fell in love. They decided to unite their families and were married in Strathmore on Oct 17, 2003. This was the beginning of many adventures together. Neil was a selfless provider for his family and was happiest making others smile. His big heart was felt by all including his numerous customers and dozens of young athletes he mentored while managing the UFA Bisons hockey team. Neil loved the game and loved to win. He stood for hard work, dedication and kindness. Neil was always armed with a fresh joke or quick come back and when the situation warranted, he would listen and share his wisdom. Neil tackled all problems with a “MacGyver” ingenuity, humour and a positive attitude even during his final battle. He was the most loving father, spouse and grandfather a family could ask for. Neil is survived by his loving wife, Suzanne Glionna; his children, Jamie and Krystle Glionna; stepchildren, Danny (Crystal) Picard and Heather (Rick) Armstrong; grandchildren, Hope, Hanna, Rylee, Keythan, Davin (Brooke), Erica, Kian, Reid and Seth; great-grandchild, Bellamy; siblings, Donald (Estelle) Glionna, Judy (Bernie) Owen, Paul (Jean) Glionna and Cecilia Parker as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his mother, Catherine; father, Edmund and his brother, Peter. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made in Neil’s name to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, #710, 10123 – 99 Street N.W., Edmonton, Alberta. T5J 3H1, 1-866-412-4222 or by email at albertacancer.ca/donate funds to Bone Marrow Clinic.  Due to Covid-19, a private family funeral service and reception for Neil will be celebrated at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, on October 23, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. Those wishing to watch the service via the live stream are encouraged to visit and click the view broadcast button on the home page at service time. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta   T1A 4V4. Toll free 1-877-528-6455.