Obituary of Neil R. Broughton

Our family is crushed with grief and devastated in the loss of a most beautiful soul, Neil. Neil passed on April 10th with Cory and Cindi by his side after a grueling roller-coaster battle with cancer for five years. Neil never gave up, and never did he wear cancer on his sleeve. Many would forget that he was in the fight for his life as he exemplified strength, a zest for living, determination and a sense of positivity that inspired all who knew him. Golf, water skiing, snow skiing, boating, singing, dancing are just a few things his friends and family experienced with him. You could easily spot Neil on the slopes as his form was picture perfect. He taught many people how to both water and snow ski with a patience that epitomized the best of his personality. He was blessed to have friends like Jim McGarvey, who went on golf trips, golfed locally and in Florida with Neil. Many vacations were shared with Jim, many nights out solving the world problems, with poor Kelly hearing it all. Paul and Mike Waite called him for Friday golf games, never counting him out as he weakened. His league partner, Dan, continued to partner with him even though Dan could tell Neil wasn’t the golfer he was before. I hope all these men realize how appreciated your efforts were in making Neil feel normal during those trying times. Scott, his nephew, got Neil back into boating; an activity that the Broughton’s grew up enjoying on summer vacations in Canada. Riding on the Erie Canal while belting out tunes, water skiing on the lower river, or decorating the boat for the N.T. spooktacular on the harbor made for many memories. Neil spent many nights at various WNY locations listening to music or dancing the night away. NCCC is where Neil taught for over 32 years, meeting many wonderful colleagues and students. He cherished his sisters Cheryl and Candace, and deeply missed phone calls from his brother Kevin about the latest storm or Lewiston gossip. Neil missed brother Paul on Sundays when they would stress out watching the Bills. Lewiston always held fond memories of childhood adventures; and meeting so many life long friends like Mike, Dave, and Nick; whom he was able to spend quality time with this February in Florida. Neil knew he hit the jackpot with all his in-laws and nieces and nephews. He loved his time with each and every one of them. Cory was Neil’s focus; he was such an involved father who was always there for school activities as a volunteer, going to sporting events, being the roady for Sugar and Jazz, and just loving him so much. Words cannot begin to explain what Neil meant to me, Cindi. I was absolutely blessed to have Neil in my life for so long, he made me such a better person. We will never forget him, all his family loved him dearly. His bright shining light will be missed by all. A beautiful private burial was held April 16th. We will have a celebration of life in August. What Neil would want more than any donation is that you follow his lead and live your life to the fullest