Mr. Allen Houde, beloved husband of Linda Houde of Calgary, Alberta passed away at the Intercare Chinook Hospice in Calgary on September 29, 2013 at the age of 66 years.
Allen was born on June 16, 1947 in Winnipeg, Manitoba to John & Doris Houde. At an early age, he demonstrated a keen interest in the world around him and how things worked. He admired his mother dearly and attended church as an altar boy. He found school to be dull and preferred learning by discovering and doing. He worked as a appliance repair man at the Hudson Bay Co. and worked on and off as a truck driver throughout his life driving anything from a handi-cap shuttle to a semi-truck. His last job involved driving and delivering the Calgary Sun to commercial properties around Calgary. He was a charismatic man who loved to laugh and make you smile.
Allen won the heart of a lovely young lady, Linda Marie Dodds, and they were married on November 7, 1975 in Lethbridge. They were further blessed with a family of their own. Allen devoted his life to his soul mate and wife, his loving children and precious grandchildren. He taught them that every day was a gift and to enjoy life to the fullest - tomorrow is not assured but today could be the best day yet!
His talents were many but his skill with locks, fixing appliances and electronic devices were tremendous. He loved new technology, especially computers and gadgets. He could craft wood into art, furniture, cabinets or most anything. He enjoyed tinkering on cars, cooking for family, sewing, poetry, photography, cartoons and telling great jokes. It has been said, “When Allen gets to Heaven and if the gates are locked, he is sure to get in because he could pick any lock!”
He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Marie Houde of Calgary; his children, Lora-Lea (Wayne) Oye, Lorin (Shannon) Houde, David Houde & Christine (Brad)Kirk; his grandchildren, Courtney, Olivia, Kaitlynn, Michael, Ashley, Andrea, Mitchell, David, Emily & Kaeleena; his siblings, Wilma DeLisle, Pam (Claude) Gagnon, Loretta Houde, Anita (Dave) Randall, Rhonda Houde & Lorne (Linda) Houde; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, John & Doris Houde; his sister, Wanda Jepson; and brother Richard Houde.
A private family ceremony honouring Allen’s life will be held at a later date. Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca. Donations in memory of the late Allen Houde may be directed towards Kidsport, Box 415, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.