Dr. Kenneth Ralph Allen

Passed away peacefully in Toronto on January 28, 2019 at the age of 89. Loving husband for 61 years of Shirley Allen (Taylor). Beloved father of Grant (Terry), Patti (Ron) and Stephen (Sophie). Proud grandfather of Travis (Ellesse), Kimberly (Steve), Kristen, Christopher and Marcus. Delighted great-grandfather of Lake. Ken was the youngest of nine children, all of whom predeceased him (Lois, Reg, Garnet, Greta, Helen, Les, Don and Doug).
Ken combined a heartfelt need to help others with a lifelong passion for learning. This combination of traits led him to leave North Bay, moving to Toronto to complete a BA and Bachelor of Divinity at the University of Toronto. During this time Ken met Shirley, falling deeply in love with her, and they married in 1957. Ken served as a minister in the United Church of Canada, taking on a range of assignments. However, he decided he could best help others by furthering his education, and so he moved his young family to the USA to complete a doctorate in Psychology of Religion and Pastoral Care at Boston University. Returning to Toronto, Ken founded The Toronto Institute of Family Relations which sought to address the counselling needs of the church community. Additionally, he was very involved in the early stages of the Canadian Association of Pastoral Education. From there he branched into private practice where Ken was both a counsellor and a trainer of future counsellors. He was always a builder at heart, creating and leading many new organisations.
Outside work Ken enjoyed experiencing life with his family. He loved the outdoors and few things made him happier than taking on a new project at the family cottage on Muldrew Lake. Throughout his life Ken maintained an admirable sense of humility and a strong moral compass, which guided his decision making. His insights, sense of humour and compassion for others will be missed by many.
Warmest thanks to the staff at Christie Gardens for their care in Ken's final year.
Per Ken's wishes, private cremation has taken place. A Service of Remembrance to celebrate his life will be held at Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre on Saturday, March 2 at 11 a.m., with reception to follow. Guests welcome at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate in memory of Ken to the Foundation of Christie Gardens (www.christiegardens.org/#foundation) or the charity of your choice