Melville James Allen

ALLEN—Melville James Born June 26, 1922 in Etobicoke, Ontario. Dad went to radio communications school, got his communication ticket and then joined the Merchant Navy in 1943 at age 21. He came to Vancouver after the war asaguest of one of his Navy friends. Dad said that he thought he was brought asapotential suitor for his friend’s sister. Fate had other plans, however, because across the street lived Grace Welch and it was Grace who became his girlfriend and later his wife. Grace and Mel married in 1946. They spent 9 months living in a lighthouse in Georgian Bay and Dad said that the time spent at the lighthouse was like a 9 month honeymoon. They returned to Vancouver and Dad worked in retail sales for manyyears. Dadloved his flower garden and photography. When the kids were young we camped with a tent that had been waterproofed so many times it weighed more than all of us put together. Later when the kids left home Mom and Dad discovered houseboating on the Shuswap with their many friends. From houseboats they progressed to a camper van and from there to cruises. Dad is survived by his wife Grace, his children: Linda Allen and Cathie Tanchak (Dave), and his daughterin-law Lynda Cuddy. His grandchildren Sherry Mills (Shawn), Richard Allen, Dex Tanchak and greatgrandson, Joshua Mills. Dad is also survived by his sister-in-law Joan Clark, his nephews: Stephen Clark (Theresa), Glen Clark (Karen) and their families. Mel was predeceased in 1998 by his son John. Mel’s cheerful attitude and positive manner will be missed by all who knew him. He is at peace. Dad lived at the Cedars for the last seven months of his life and he was happy there. Many thanks to all of the staff, housekeeping, kitchen, front desk, Mirandah, Margit, and Sally. Dad made many friends at the Cedars, Nina (his crib partner and dinner pal), Phil, who is always smiling and eager to help, and Yoko whose conversations he always enjoyed. There are many names not on this list, please know that all of you at The Cedars were very important to Dad. Thanks to Pastor Paul from Broadway Church for being a good friend to Dad. Thanks also to Bruce for the visitations. Thanks to Dr. Lutsky for many years of caring for Dad and for being a friend who always returned phone calls. Dad died on November 11, 2008 at approximately 11 a.m. in St. Michael’s Hospice. St. Michael’s is a caring and compassionate place. Thanks Nan. You made a huge difference in the feeling of peace for the family. There will be a Celebration of Mel’s Life on Sunday, November 23 at Broadway Church, 2700 E. Broadway at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the BC Cancer Foundation. Thank you.

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