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September 7, 2020
With immense sadness we share the passing of Manley Foster Allison on September 7, 2020 in Campbell River, at 82 years of age. Manley was most often found puttering in his shop, on his boat or at his cabin on Nootka Island. The time spent and memories created at these places formed cherished childhood memories for his children Ross (Kathy), Kristine (Scott) and Cathy (Graeme) who will remember him, and their time spent together with much love, fondness and gratitude. Many years later he would happily share these experiences in a very different way with his grandchildren; Michael, Madison, Matthew, Nathan, Callum and Sylvie who will miss their Papa dearly.

One of the first employees of the Gold River Pulp Mill, he and his wife Flora arrived in the brand new community via gravel road in 1966 where they remained for 52 years. In 1975 he and two partners took a chance and started their own business, Gold River Maintenance & Supply, a business that grew and continues to thrive. The family he and Flora shared and the long-time friendships made within the community of Gold River formed the very fabric of his life. Manley had a strong sense of service and served the community with pride in many ways including over 30 years with the fire department (including serving as Fire Chief), Justice of the Peace as well as being the community go-to guy for all you may need. Solution for your obscure seemingly impossible task? He would have one.

Just as he approached his work problems, he challenged his numerous health issues with determination and resolve. There was no problem that could not be met head on, with plenty of reinforcement. Often, he would be suffering silently, with stoicism and determination but refused to give up, constantly surprising everyone around him - medical professionals included.

As he reminded us many times, this was 30 years longer than he ever expected to live and he was very quick to owe his life to his long-time friend Dr. Bryan Garson, without his care and attention so many years ago, we would not have had this bonus time to enjoy with him.

His kindness was appreciated, and we will truly miss this gentle man. Manley had immense pride in the business he built, the work he did but most of all the family that he loved, laughed with (and worried about!). He only ever wished happiness, contentment and love for all of us, three attributes that will form our memories of him forever.

We know that Dad is now comfortable in his Stanfields, enjoying the view from his west coast cabin in the sky - while contemplating how to Manley-ize the heck out of it. Our family would like to thank Dr. Jon Walker and the many health care professionals who cared for Manley over this past year. There will be no service at his request and in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Campbell River Hospital Foundation in Manley's memory.



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