William "Bill" Stanley Allen

The family of William Stanley Allen are saddened to report his death on October 24 at the Halifax Infirmary, at the age of 98.

Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland on November 17, 1922, Bill graduated from Queen’s University Belfast with a degree in civil engineering, which took him around the world to the Middle East, Australia and eventually Canada, where he settled in 1953. He married Eileen Andrews (the niece of his brother-in-law) (totally legal)) in 1954 and they raised a family of three children. Family in tow, Bill’s work took him across Canada from Quebec and Ontario to British Columbia and back again, and eventually to Nova Scotia, where they settled.

His life was full, with a fair share of ups and downs, and through it all he managed to keep a positive and enthusiastic attitude. He often remarked on his good fortune in life. He was a true family man and a proud father to David (Chrystal), John (Susan MacLeod) and Pat (John Devlin), and grandfather to Joshua, Jacob, Michael A, Grace, Michael G, Mark, Katie, and great grandfather to Rowan.

The last years were not easy and he suffered a number of strokes, one of which he eventually succumbed to. Bill’s family would like to thank the many individuals who have supported Bill and Eileen over the last few years, and also the paramedics and medical staff at the Halifax Infirmary, who did so much to make his last days comfortable.

Bill was very fortunate indeed to have lived at home until the end, thanks to Eileen’s tireless efforts and endless patience. A life lived well, loved and appreciated by his family and friends.

We should all be so lucky.