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".
RIP cousin Jack.
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.
Loved dearly and missed deeply
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!