Robert Joseph Allison, affectionately known as Bob to his friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on the 28th of May, 2025, at the age of 80, in his hometown of Thunder Bay, Ontario. Born on June 18, 1944, Bob was a man whose zest for life and enduring spirit touched the hearts of many throughout his meaningful journey on earth.
Bob began his career as a bellhop at the Prince Arthur Hotel, showing early signs of the hardworking and resourceful man he would become. His industrious nature led him to the grain elevators of Parish & Heimbecker, where he ascended from shovelling grain to a respected foreman over a distinguished 20-plus-year career. Bob's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly when he realized his dream of owning a food truck. The French Fryer became a beloved local staple, growing from a modest operation in the K-Mart parking lot to a successful venture that included multiple locations and a variety store.
After retiring from P&H, Bob continued to keep active, taking on various roles that ranged from Robin's Donuts to fabricating in North Dakota. His work ethic was matched only by his passion for music. A self-taught guitar player, Bob could often be found strumming his cherished acoustic guitar, Lucille, and crooning tunes by Buddy Holly and Roy Orbison. His talent for entertainment extended beyond music to his masterful storytelling, which never failed to captivate his audience.
Family was the cornerstone of Bob's life. He is survived by his adoring daughter Angela Marie Allison and her husband, Stuart Boland, and his cherished grandchildren, Ashten Robert Joseph Allison and Allison Marie Perth. Bob leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter with his siblings Butch Allison (Nancy), Ruthy Alexander (Fred), Bert Allison (Pam), James Allison (Wendy), Kim Allison (Cheryl), and numerous nieces and nephews from across the country. He was predeceased by his ex-wife Diana Lynn Allison nee Nazvesky and his parents, Reginald Arbour, James David Allison, and Emelda Maria Allison nee Moreau.
Bob's Sunday morning coffee visits with his daughter and grandchildren were filled with lively conversation, shared jokes, and the simple pleasure of watching wildlife. These moments, brimming with bonding, swearing, and laughter, are cherished memories that will be held dear by his family.
In reflection of Bob's life, a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson resonates with the legacy he leaves: "To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children... to leave the world a bit better... to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." Bob Allison indeed lived a successful life, filled with love, joy, and the accomplishment of dreams.
Bob's journey through life was marked by resilience, joy, and an unwavering commitment to his family and dreams. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his stories will continue to inspire laughter and warmth for generations to come.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
