Obituary of Roland Wilfred ALLEN

December 25, 1933 – Lakeview, Ontario
May 20, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

Roland Wilfred Allen, better known as “Rollie”,  passed away in his home on Wednesday, May 20, 2020, at the age of 86 years.   

Dad joined the military at a young age and was stationed in Germany during peacetime. He was then stationed in Calgary where he met Joan in 1954 at the Avenue Ballroom. He knew instantly that she was the woman for him and they were married six months later. Dad was determined to celebrate his 65th anniversary with Joan, and together they reached that goal on April 9, 2020.

Roland has been the most amazing husband for sixty-five years to the love of his life. She was the centre of his world and everything he did was for her and his family. They had a large family of five children, eleven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Although dad’s military time was short, he always had so much pride in having been enlisted and told many stories about his time in the military.  Dad then became a printer and was equally proud of his craft. He made some great friends through his jobs whose friendships continued for many years.

Dad’s morals, ethics and honesty were next to none, and he was the role model that led us all. He loved sharing all of his children’s accomplishments and spoke about them endlessly to whoever would listen.

His passion for volunteering led us all to be involved at Thorncliffe Community Centre. He was one of the founding committee members who helped make the community and arena what it is today. We all have great memories of our time there. 

Dad had a positive impact on many kids through the community and that legacy will never go away. He volunteered with minor hockey for many years and was most proud of his time volunteering with the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary.  

Dad woke up every day happy and we will miss him for this happiness, his constant smile, his whistling and his refusal to leave the door without waving until our car was out of sight. Love you Dad.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed on Roland’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com. If friends so desire, In lieu of flowers memorial tributes may be made directly to  the Liver Foundation for NASH research, (Suite 801, 3100 Steeles Avenue East, Markham, ON L3R 8T3) Email | Phone: (416) 491-3353 / 1 (800) 563-5483 Fax: (905) 752-1540

In living memory of Roland Allen, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH, CALGARY, AB, T2E 2V6,   Telephone: 403-243-8200.