Provost, Neil F.

Age 75, of Roslindale, died Nov. 8 after a brief illness. Beloved husband of Patricia (Sullivan), he is also survived by his sister Margaret Dwyer and brother-in-law R. Martin Dwyer, sisters-in-law Cynthia and Lynn Provost and brother-in-law Michael Sullivan, and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Robert A. and Rose (Collins) Provost, brothers Robert A. Provost Jr. and David C. Provost, and sister Nancy Collins.

Neil grew up in Arlington, where he loved playing hockey on Spy Pond, a sport that he continued playing into his 70s. He graduated from Boston University and retired after 30 years working in information technology at Boston College. During his years at BC, he learned to love BC hockey and was a longtime supporter of the program.

An interest in gardening was sparked later in life by living two blocks from Arnold Arboretum, one of the most significant tree parks in the country. He loved walking the Arboretum and his interest developed even further after buying a summer house in Addison, Maine. While there, in addition to gardening, he enjoyed sailing and hiking along the Maine coast.

A memorial service will be held Saturday Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to noon at Keefe Funeral Home, 5 Chestnut st., Arlington. In lieu of flowers, donations in Neil’s memory can be made to the Arnold Arboretum, 125 Arborway, Jamaica Plain, Mass., 02130 or www.arboretum.harvard.edu. Guestbook and other information at www.keefefuneralhome.com.