Allen Nelson Prodan

Allen was a devoted brother, husband, father, uncle, and Popa. He was beloved by a wide circle of loyal friends, extended family and people who considered him an adopted family member.

Allen is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Linda, his daughters Lori and Natasha and sons-in-law Keith Holmes and Sonny Bhalla. His lifelong love of learning will continue through his loving grandchildren, Maya, Nelson, Leila and Magda, who brought him endless joy. Allen was predeceased by his beloved brothers Mel and Dennis; he was a much loved brother-in-law to Jan and Carole. Allen was also a beloved member of Linda’s family; predeceased by sisters-in-law Jean and Gloria and loving brother-in-law to Bob Sones. He will be missed by his many nieces and nephews.

Allen was born in Geraldton in 1942 to Tom and Margaret Prodan, Allen’s family then lived in Simcoe for ten years, running a market gardening farm. Allen worked on the family farm and neighbouring tobacco farms from an early age. The family later moved to Elliot Lake, where he met the love of his life, Linda, while in high school. Allen loved Northern Ontario; he loved the land, the lakes, each season, and enjoyed all Northern Ontario had to offer - fishing, hunting, snowmachining and ice fishing throughout the province. He was a dedicated steward of the land, serving on various environmental committees involving forestry, fishing and the planning board along the North Shore.

Allen was an inspiring educator and had an enjoyable and impactful 35 year career as a teacher, principal and superintendent. The Central Algoma Board of Education was the heart and soul of his educational career. He also served on many provincial committees and was involved in curriculum writing. He felt blessed to have been able to work with so many dedicated colleagues, many of whom he considered friends long after his retirement. Allen loved the deep rooted sense of community he experienced at Central Algoma and was always delighted to meet a former student or parent.

A renaissance man with many interests and skills, Allen lived life to the fullest. Along with his brothers and friends, he built several houses, camps, the occasional outhouse and one memorable dance floor. He had been a pilot, a dedicated gardener, a history buff, a world traveler, an avid reader and loved a good chat about politics and current events. Allen was a member of a loyal book club for over twenty years; this book club was a great source of friendship for him. He was a long time member of Willowgrove United Church, serving on their board and sharing his gardening skills.

Allen’s strong values around community and care led him to work with several refugee families and organizations supporting young people’s development. Over the years, some of these people from different parts of the world including South Sudan, Ukraine, Tanzania, and Kenya, became like adopted family, as Allen took great delight in helping them thrive.

Allen leaves behind a legacy of care of the land, care for others and dedication to his family and friends. He set an example for living with purpose and a true sense of curiosity and gratitude. All who knew him are grateful.

Thank you to the staff of the Hospital at Home program, the Palliative Care at Home program, and the St John Hospice in Vancouver for their care and compassion. Thank you to the Willowgrove congregation for their friendship and kindness.

A celebration of Allen’s life will be held in Sault Ste Marie at Willowgrove United Church on Saturday, March 28; visitation from 10:30 am to 11:45 am followed by a service at 12:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations (payable by cheque or online) to Willowgrove United Church are gratefully appreciated willowgroveunited.ca. Arrangement entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. East; 705-759-2522). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the family.