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BORN
1931
DIED
2017
Allen Nelson Obituary
10.05.1931 – 12.25.2017
Allen Howard Nelson, age 86 years, a resident of Thunder Bay, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on December 25, 2017.
Allen was born in Winnipeg, lived in Atikokan during his youth, moved to Biggar, SK where he attended high school before moving back to Winnipeg. Allen had a diverse professional career. He started his career in Winnipeg, working with the Burroughts Corp. From there he was transferred to Port Arthur continuing with them until he decided to change jobs. He accepted a position with CIAG where he later became the district manager.
Allen volunteered and became a member of the Lakehead Social Planning Council which suggested a need for affordable housing. He was then appointed fulltime coordinator of the “housing committee”, and out of several meetings in members basements, Castlegreen was born (Caring and Sharing to Live Economically). Allen was Castlegreen's first president. Allen was highly respected and was called upon world-wide to share his vast knowledge and advice regarding co-operative housing. Allen's legacy was to passionately help people and better his community. He was a member of numerous committees and associations including; President of the Canadian Co-operative Housing Federation, member of the NDP party of Port Arthur, Port Arthur Curling Club, Strathcona Golf Course, and the 55 Plus Centre to name a few.
Allen was a devoted family man and always had time for anyone who seeked help or professional advice. He was an avid golfer, curler and pool player for many years and had numerous friends both socially and professionally.
He is survived by Sharon, his partner and wife of 50 years. They were blessed with 5 children; Valery Guy, Jim, Raymond and Bill Nelson and Shelly Helget. He was given the gift of 8 grandchildren; Kevin and Geoffery Guy, Rebecca, Andrew and Andrea Nelson, Rhianna and Garrett Nelson and Paige Helget. He also is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Castlegreen Co-operative Community Centre on Thursday, January, 4th, 2017 at 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Allen Nelson Bursary Fund at Castlegreen or a charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Allen Nelson
3 Entries
Barry Pinsky
February 9, 2018
Al was a wonderful friend and mentor in the early days of the co-op housing movement. There were only a few pioneers in the mid-70s, and Al was always more than willing to share his experiences. I had the great pleasure of visiting Al at Castlegreen in 1976 on my way to the Vancouver Habitat Conference. With Al's help, this led to publishing an article about his beloved co-op in CMHC's housing magazine. Not surprisingly, Al was always very supportive of my work with Rooftops Canada. A fine man whom I will miss.
Eila Scobie
January 5, 2018
My condolences to the family.
January 1, 2018
I worked with Al at the CIA in the sixties. He was a great teacher, mentor, confidant and friend. My condolences to all the family.
George Rogers
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