In memory of

Frederick 'Jack' John Allen

December 28, 1949 -  March 18, 2024

Frederick John Allen Jr., affectionately known as Jack, peacefully passed away on March 18, 2024, surrounded by his beloved family. He was born on December 28, 1949, in Toronto, Canada, to Frederick John Sr. and Dora Allen. Jack's life was a testament to love, resilience, and unwavering dedication.
As the eldest of three brothers, including Richard and Ted, Jack spent his childhood in Toronto and Sutton, hunting and fishing with his cousins. He worked diligently during his teenage years, holding a job as a cook in a local restaurant to support his education at Western University. He helped his father build his new house in Cannington. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1971.
He met and married Wendy Taylor, and they welcomed their pride and joy, their son Jason in 1976. Jack was a loving and dedicated father, and Jason was the apple of his eye.
Throughout his career at Shell Canada, Jack demonstrated exceptional work ethic and strong leadership skills, earning the respect of colleagues and leaving a lasting impact on the IT department. During this time, Jack met Suzanne and fell in love. Despite his professional success, Jack's greatest joy was found in spending time with his family, sharing camping adventures, and engaging in friendly games of cards, darts, or pool.
In 2002, Jack was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome. With unwavering support from his beloved wife, Jack faced his illness with courage and resilience. Retiring early from Shell Canada, Jack and Suzanne moved back to Ontario in 2006 to be closer to family, treasuring every moment together.
Jack leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion cherished by his wife Suzanne Allen (nee Truchon of North Bay), his son Jason Allen, daughter-in-law Angela (nee Morelli), his grandchildren, Liam, Joseph, and Ciara, and his brother, Ted.
A celebration of Jack's life will be held at a later date to honor his memory. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Center or Oshawa Lakeridge Cancer Center, or if at all possible, contributions of blood donations to help those in need.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Oshawa Lakeridge Hospital and the dedicated doctors at Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Center for their unwavering care and support.
Jack’s kindness, resilience, and love for his family will forever be remembered and cherished. May he rest in eternal peace.

Guestbook 

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Suzanne Allen (Wife)

Entered April 4, 2024 from Whitby, Ontario

I could not have asked for a better life partner. I am sitting here now, grateful to my toes for our life together. I regret nothing. I loved it all. You fought so bravely. Rest in peace, my Love. Ours is a true "Neverending Story".

Steve Jeffrey (Cousin)

Entered April 6, 2024 from Comox, B.C.

RIP cousin Jack.

Bill and Bonnie Haughton (Friend and co-Worker at Shell Canada)

Entered April 6, 2024 from Creston, B.C.

When one hears of the passing of a true friend, a presence at both work and play, the memories suddenly come rushing in like a flood to wash over one’s emotions. It is a conflicted feeling with grief and sadness calling on one side, and thoughts of the happy days of laughter, companionship, and friendship echoing back on the other.

So it is with us and Jack.

I remember meeting Jack in 1976 when he joined Shell. I admired his calmness as he began his Shell career in the IT department. Under that veil of calmness, I shortly discovered the heart of a party animal! We connected right away in a lasting opera of fun times and occasional silliness.

Bonnie and I remember the dinners we enjoyed with Jack and Suzanne, and laughed at the Shell events we all went to where we toasted everything and celebrated each other’s company. We fondly recall the days of working together to foster Shell’s IT success, where respect for Jack’s professionalism and expertise helped guide us in our own careers. Sharing personal triumphs and upsets between us were given and received without question when it was needed most.

I remember the ‘Old Boyes’ golf tournaments down to Montana, where Jack and I were the resort cooks for 40 hungry and crazy guys, planning the meals, doing the grocery shopping, and cooking up a storm while sipping a libation or two in the heat of the kitchen.

Even after retirement and Jack and Suzanne’s move to Ontario, friendship and contact was always there despite the distance. That is what these memories remind us of as our own paths trek on for the time being.

Jack is at peace now, free from his sickness that he fought with courage, resilience, and determination. Bonnie and I send our profound condolences to Suzanne and the Allen family.

In Jack’s honor, I wrote a short poem that I hope brings us all comfort:

Though his light is gone, and no longer do we feel
The smiles and joy that Jack gave each of us in turn;
The afterglow of happy times and laughing times,
Are testament to memories we now sorely yearn;

No brighter star in the shadow of the darkened sky
Exists, for now our friend has taken there his place;
Where each of us can look upon the expanse above,
And know Jack shines in heaven’s eternal embrace.

We will miss you, Jack.

Bill and Bonnie Haughton
Creston, BC.

Angela Morelli (Daughter in law)

Entered April 8, 2024 from Toronto, Ontario

Loved dearly and missed deeply

Karen Whisenhunt (Friend)

Entered April 8, 2024 from Las Vegas, NV, USA

I have known Jack and Suzanne for over 35 years since our days at Shell. They have been a part of my heart since the first time we met. Jack was always the master chef and I was always glad when he prepared wonderful meals for us. Susanne could barely boil water back in those days but didn't have to as Jack loved to cook and was good at it. Jack and Suzanne came to our wedding in Costa Rica and were at the start of my new life. Although we've lived far apart for many years, they have always been in my heart and prayers. I will be forever grateful for the love and friendship from both Jack and Suzanne. Distance does not change what's in our heart. I will treasure the memories I have of a wonderful guy. May you rest in peace my friend. You made the world a better place!

Photos 

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