Neil Robinson

Neil Robinson was a man of integrity and lived a simple consistent life. In his full 56 years, he was ever ready for his final day on earth, looked forward to Heaven, and daily lived his life in a way that reflected his faith and values.
Neil died suddenly of a heart attack on November 10th while enjoying one of his favorite recreations, playing basketball with friends.
As a servant of the Lord, "his life was his message."
Neil's family fondly remembers and embraces his legacy of servanthood, loyalty, acceptance of others, patience and consistency.
Neil was born May 14, 1952 in St. Thomas, ND. He greatly honored his parents Marvin and Doris Robinson who instilled in him from a young age the values of a hard days work, love of the land, and appreciation for the simple life.
Neil married the love of his life May 18, 1974. They were best friends, "cheerleaders," and advocates for each other. Throughout their married life they shared their love of the Lord, of their family, and of nature.
Neil and Laurie's three children, Aaron, Heather and Carson, were a constant source of pride and joy, as well as his son-in-law Justin and daughter-in-law Michelle. His children appreciated any time spent with him, sitting around a campfire, watching cartoons, playing cards and chess, shooting hoops, hunting, fishing, and traveling. He was looking so forward to becoming a first-time grandpa in May.
One of his truly special, non-negotiable events was his annual fishing trip with his sons and friends.
Neil loved going to work every day as a financial representative for Edward Jones and was genuinely interested in those he served. His work was an extension of his core belief system.
Among the ways in which he expressed his servanthood was in supporting the work of the Women's Pregnancy Center and using his hands and feet to serve at Faith Evangelical Free church as needed.

Neil is survived by his wife, Laurie, children Aaron of Toulouse, France, Heather (Justin) Johnson, and Carson (Michelle), Grand Forks; his mother Doris Robinson, Grand Forks; brothers Dave (Linda), Grand Forks; Myles (Cindy), St. Thomas, ND, Curt (Nancy), Vermillion, SD, Todd (Yvonne), Prior Lake, MN, and sister Roxanne (Brad) Strand, Fargo, ND and several nieces and nephews. His first grandchild will be born in May.
Neil was preceded in death by his father, Marvin.

It is the desire of the family to invite you to be a part of the celebration of Neil's life. Visitation will be Friday at the church from 5:30-7 pm with a prayer service at 7 pm. The funeral service will be at 10:30 am Saturday morning, November 15, 2008 at Faith Evangelical Free Church in Grand Forks.

Memorials will be directed to two of Neil's favorite ministries, Campus Crusade for Christ and the Women's Pregnancy Center.

The Bilden Funeral Home of Northwood is in charge of arrangements.