Allan set out on his final voyage on February 1st, 2024 after a well lived, eventful, and adventuresome life that began in 1943 in Hamilton.

Predeceased by his parents, Leslie and Blanche Simpson, he will be remembered by his best friend and partner, Diana, his daughter Daphne (Mike Neerhof), and his son Neil (Angela Vanderholst), his brother Brian (Kathy) Simpson, and sister-in-law Judy (Ian) Brown.  A doting grandfather, always interested in the education  and adventures of his six grandchildren, Allan is thankful for the gift of Desmond, Cecilia and Beatrice Neerhof of Fergus, and Ava, Grace and Olivia Simpson of Hanover.

Having been active in the Boy Scout movement in Aldershot, after completing his studies at Waterdown DHS, he pursued studies in modern history, French, and Russian at University of Toronto.  Seeking further language development and adventures, he spent six months hitch-hiking and hosteling in Europe and North Africa, taught French one year in Thessalon, and returned to earn a post-grad degree in Paris at the Sorbonne in 1967.

The decision to pursue life in a small town led to his teaching French in 1968 at what would become John Diefenbaker Secondary School.  Thirty years at JDSS would be interrupted for a one year teacher exchange when he, Diana and young Daphne spent a year in Nantes, France where he taught English.  The urge to travel and forge friendships within our nation led to his organizing JDSS student exchanges with schools in Quebec,ski trips to the Laurentians, and later three student exchanges with France.

Allan was active also on the Board of Managers at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian in Hanover.   In his retirement years, he volunteered time on the Ontario Trillium Foundation.  He was on the steering committee which founded the PROBUS club for Hanover area, and played an active role in the club.  Reading, creating stained glass works, and painting in acrylics and oils filled his leisure hours.  Ever grateful to his students and to the town of Hanover for a full life, Allan leaves behind many memories. 

Friends are invited to join the family for a memorial service at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (378 10th St, Hanover) on Wednesday, February 7, 2024  at 11:00am.  A celebration of life will follow at 12:30pm -3:30pm at the Hanover Legion (493 8th Ave, Hanover). 

As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations to the Hanover & District Hospital Foundation or to the Sports & Arts Programs of John Diefenbaker Secondary School.(Please make cheques payable to JDSS) Arrangements entrusted to the care of Mighton Funeral Home. Condolences may be made by visiting www.mightonfuneralhome.ca