In Memoriam

Alan George Pepper, resident of Thunder Bay, died on Tuesday, 10th May, 2005 [a year ago today] in the TBRHSC as a result of the consequences of organ failure, resulting from diabetes.

Alan was born 21st June, 1933 in Balham, London, England, shortly thereafter moving to Mitcham, Surrey, England, where he lived until the age of 18, when he was called up for National Service with the Royal Fusiliers and the Royal Army Educational Corps. Prior to this he went to Mitcham County Grammar School in Mitcham and took his National Educational Certificate.

In 1949 he started working at the Merton and Morden Public Library, where he met Sheila, and worked in public libraries for the rest of his life. In 1963 he brought his family to Fort William, Canada and held various positions with what subsequently became the Ontario Library Service.

Part-time education had been a part of Alan's life since he first left school at 16. The professional courses of the (British) Library Association commenced before his immigration and he immediately began studying at Lakehead University, obtaining a B.A. in Psychology in 1972 and an Honours B.A. in Sociology in 1979.

Alan married Sheila (Griffiths) in 1955 and they would have celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary in September of this year.

Alan was predeceased by his parents, Frederick James and Winifred Mary in 1975 and 1969 respectively and by numerous uncles and aunts. He is survived by Sheila, sons, Adrian Roland David (Chris) in Waterloo and Richard Evelyn Paul (in town), daughter, Geraldine Elizabeth Anne Glisson (Byron) in Georgia, U.S. and grandchildren, Robin Anne, Derek Allan, Douglas Arthur, Gregory Earl, Beverly Elizabeth, Mitchell Edward and Clifford Austin Livingston and by sister, Margaret Anne Pratt(Robert) in Nottinghamshire, England as well as cousins, nieces and nephews.

Alan's favourite occupation was Rotary International which he joined in 1967, holding many offices in the Fort William Rotary Club, becoming District Governor (District 5580) in 2001. Respecting Alan’s wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2005 at 1:00pm in the Church of Christ (corner Redwood and Edward Streets) officiated by Mr. Eric Bailey. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Rotary Foundation or charity of your choice.

A tree will be planted in memory of Alan Pepper in the Blake Funeral Chapel Memorial Grove. Annual dedication service Sunday, June 25, 2006.