Alan Farquharson Millard

Alan Farquharson Millard

April 30, 1925 – March 20, 2021

With profound sadness we say farewell to our dear father Alan who passed away peacefully in Sechelt, BC. 

He is survived by his children Sheila, Ann (Mike W – deceased), Mike (Karen), David; his grandchildren, affectionately known as Grumpy to Ben (Hillary), Andrea (Dodd), Amanda (Kevin), Kieran and great granddaughter Rhea, predeceased by his wives, Peggy in May 1982 and Joan in August 2020

Our Dad’s Story

Dad was born in Llanstephan Wales. His family moved to London England when he was a toddler, where he was raised and attended school. He enjoyed music, helping his father repair an old piano planning to take lessons. His older sister Claire (still living in England) was a natural at the piano, and to his dismay quickly outshone him.

He immigrated to Canada in 1948 making his home in Vancouver. He met his first wife a fellow British immigrant Margaret (Peggy) Gough. They were married in February 1953 and started their family.  

In the early days of his marriage Dad worked in manufacturing as a tool and die maker and a machinist. Between work, supporting family, taking care of auto maintenance and all necessary home repairs, Dad also found time to attend night school and obtain his license as a Professional Engineer (Mechanical). This led to a successful career in forestry, designing sawmills that were built in Canada, the USA, Europe and New Zealand.

Dad’s favourite place when at home was in his workshop surrounded by his many special tools. He had a keen interest in electronics as well as wood working and built some of the furniture found in the family home. The most challenging yet rewarding piece he built is the clavichord his son David owns and plays.

He was interested in antique clocks, and started a business repairing them. He purchased, repaired and kept a Grandfather clock which chimed beautifully on the hour. Never one to sit idle, he also enjoyed making wine and beer.

In December 1985, shortly after Dad retired, he married Marilyn Upton and moved to Peachland. Marilyn found the Okanagan winters rather bleak and  after a visit to the Sunshine Coast, she proposed that they relocate to the coast. After 17 years together they amicably divorced. Marilyn is still living in the house they purchased when they moved to Sechelt.

In retirement Dad spent time learning about computers. He gathered components building or upgrading systems for himself, and eventually became the Help Desk person to his friends on the Coast. He also found time to focus on his love of music, taking piano lessons, singing lessons and singing with the Suncoast Phoenix Community Choir. He performed for several years in the local music festival achieving top honours for his duet with Edmund Arceo, accompanied by Joan Keating, in 2009.

The last years of his life were very special. After reconnecting with Joan, his former piano teacher and now accompanist, he fell madly in love at the age of 84. Dad and Joan were married in July 2009.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Simon Reznick and the staff of Shorncliffe for taking care of our dear old Dad in the last year of his long and wonderful life.

 A Celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

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