Allen Ernest Louis Abraham

Allen grew up in the Ste. Rose du Lac region in Manitoba. When young, Allen left home to work in the North at Kelsey Dam. When he had enough money, he went to get his carpentry certification from Red River Community College. In 1967, he met Diane (née Boulet) and they were married in 1969. He worked as a carpenter for many years in Winnipeg, all while flipping houses with Diane in their spare time. He was later employed by the Federal Government, first by Indian Affairs, then by Environment Canada as a facilities specialist at weather stations in the Arctic. During this time his family grew, adding three children and eventually 10 grandchildren to the mix. He and Diane lived in Manitoba for over thirty years together before moving to Vancouver Island in their retirement.  

Allen was a proud member of the Manitoba Métis Federation. He loved travelling with his family, taking many road trips to visit family and explore North America. Allen could fix or build anything - he was a constant putterer and tinkerer, always thinking of his next project. His last big project was a complete renovation of his own house at the age of 76. He was a great father to his three children Michael, Rob, and Joanne. Some of his happiest times were with his children and 10 grandchildren, with whom he loved to visit and play and involve in his many building projects. He also loved to remember and recount his many adventures working in the great white North. He and Diane enjoyed travelling internationally in their retirement. Highlights from these trips were visiting relatives in France (where his dad was born), tenting in the Sahara and riding his first (and only) camel while in Morocco. 

Allen had many medical issues over the years, but met them all with strength of spirit and unending optimism. He is predeceased by both his parents Louis and Thérèse, his sister Cookie, and two brothers, Roger and Victor, as well as his father-in-law Charles and brother-in-law Hubert.  He leaves to mourn him his sisters Cecile and Mary (Gary), as well as his brothers Dale and André (Carol). He also leaves behind his beloved mother-in-law Germaine, as well as in-laws Louise, Allison, Roger, Jocelyn, Richard and Pauline, and many cherished nieces and nephews. He is survived by his wife Diane, his three children and their spouses, Michael, Rob and Tammy, and Joanne and Theo, as well as by his grandchildren Mathew, Jayden, Greg, Mackenzie, Nevin, Syerra, Kassidy, Trinity, Greta and Archer.  

The family would like to thank Allen’s family doctor John Dalla Lana, who supported him throughout his long journey with many health issues, as well as the wonderful Palliative Care team at Oceanside - Dr. Hunter, all the wonderful nurses, and his RT Joanne - who all kept him comfortable at home to the end.  

There will be two gatherings to celebrate Allen’s life, an informal gathering on Vancouver Island and a more formal service in Winnipeg. The gathering on Vancouver Island will take place Saturday February 10th, 2024 at 2pm at Oceanside Community Church in Parksville (1420 Alberni Highway). The service in Winnipeg will take place on March 15th, 2024 at 2pm at Glen Lawn Funeral Home.  

In lieu of flowers, a donation to Oceanside Hospice Society would be appreciated. We also appreciate your stories and prayers shared below on the tribute wall.