James Neil Neilsen, 91, of Florenceville-Bristol, NB, passed away on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 at The Upper River Valley Hospital, Waterville, NB. Born in Sisson Ridge on March 6, 1921, he was the son of the late Carl and Nellie (Gallop) Neilsen.

James is survived by his daughters; Linda Whittaker, Jacksonville, NB, Carole Foskey, Lake City Florida, son; James L. Neilsen, Columbia, South Carolina, brother, Malcolm Neilsen, Moncton, NB, sisters; Greta Kimball, Presque Isle, ME, Phyllis Barton, Bangor, ME, Beryl Young, Seattle, WA, 13 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Besides his parents, James was predeceased by his beloved wife, Shirley (Sisson) Neilsen, son, Carl Winston C.R. Neilsen, brother, Ova Neilsen and a sister, Yvonne MacDonald.

James enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and was a proud WWII Veteran, having served overseas and in Canada. He was honorably discharged upon completion of his enlistment with commendations.  He served five years in the RCAF reserves.

After the war he joined the Department of Agriculture and in 1953 became a potato inspector in Andover. In 1954 he was transferred to Saint John as fruit and vegetable inspector. He was promoted to senior inspector of the Saint John office and subsequently was promoted to supervising fruit and vegetable inspector of the federal department of agriculture for New Brunswick with the headquarters in East Florenceville. He remained with the Public Service of Canada for 30 years and retired December 30, 1981.

After retirement he and Shirley traveled throughout Canada and USA teaching Round Dancing. He loved to dance, go RVing and gardening.

By the deceased request there will be no visitation or funeral service. Interment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Canadian Cancer Society, Gideon's, or to a memorial of the donor's choice.