It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Neil Weller (“Neil”), who left us peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family, on February 26, 2026, at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. Neil was 78 years old.
Neil was the beloved father of Rob (Tammy), Carla (Kevin), and Lisa (Dan), and a trusted friend of their mother, Hellie Weller, all of Keswick.
He was a proud and devoted grandfather (Pop) to Daniel (Ally), Hayden (Courtney), and Robby (Aliyah), and a cherished great-grandfather to Leela and Ava.
Neil was the loving companion of Estelle Arsenault and a dear friend to her brother, Ron Lamarche.
He is survived by his sister, Reta Marie, and his brothers Gord and Bruce. Neil was predeceased by his brother Doug and his parents, Wilfred and Isa Weller. He will be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Neil graduated from Sutton District High School, where he formed many lifelong friendships. He went on to complete the Construction Engineering program at Ryerson Polytechnic Institute in Toronto. After graduation, he joined the family business, Weller Tree Service, dedicating his working life to building and growing the company alongside his brothers Gord and Bruce.
Neil will be remembered for his steadfast and unconditional love of family, his genuine love of people, and his enjoyment of social gatherings. He was passionate about equipment and antique trucks, and he found great joy in the northern Ontario landscape and time spent on his farm. He deeply loved his cherished dogs, Casey and Bandit.
Neil leaves behind a remarkable legacy of supporting young people as they began their working lives. He hired and trained countless young men and women—many of whom went on to run their own successful arborist companies. As a licensed crane operator, Neil generously shared his knowledge and skills, mentoring many who showed interest in the field, including his son Rob, son in-law Dan and his grandson Daniel.
The Weller family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital for their kind and empathetic care throughout the eight years Neil required dialysis, and most recently during his stay in the ICU. A special thank you is extended to Nurse Cathy from the dialysis team—a true angel—for her ongoing compassionate care, and to the ICU nurses whose loving concern and dedication in Neil’s final days went above and beyond.
In honour of Neil, please raise a glass and enjoy a sip while reminiscing about your favourite memories and moments shared with him.
Memorial donations may be made to Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 356 on Sunday, March 22, from 1:00–5:00 p.m. 21 East Street, Sutton West, Ontario, L0E 1R0.
