Obituary of Alan Brackpool

BRACKPOOL, Alan Michael ('Al'); ('Big Al') August 7, 1942 - June 1, 2016 Alan passed away at Wexford Residence, just one week after being transferred from a lengthy stay at Campbellford Memorial Hospital. Alan was born in Weston-Super-Mare, Somerset, England to Brack and Madge Brackpool, and moved with his mother and sister to be with our father who was in the RAF and seconded to BOAC in Montreal, Quebec in January 1945. They sailed on the Ile de France. The ship was chased by a German U-boat, causing the landing to take place in New York (rather than Halifax) and they were then flown to Dorval Airport. Alan had an idyllic childhood in a small community known as Dixie, Lachine, Quebec. The family then moved to Scarborough, Ontario in 1955. Alan was one of 20 Canadians who were allowed to join the U.S. Navy (Air Branch - Patrol Squadron 46) during the Vietnam War. He was stationed in California, Hawaii and Okinawa during his four-year term (1963-67). He was awarded a Good Conduct Medal, a National Defence Service Medal and, in 1967, his Honorable Discharge, returning to Toronto. He achieved his dream of working with aircraft, and also being in the Navy. His training in aircraft maintenance enabled him to spend the next 32 years working at Pearson Airport. Alan suffered from many health problems in the last 10 years, but bore them with stoicism and a sense of humour. The last year was particularly difficult. He will be greatly missed by his sister Pat, his long-time friend of 60 years Ron McAnespie, and his former Airport co-workers (Wing Ki Yee in particular). He also left a longtime friend, Doris Hamilton, in Marmora and the late Edna Bland and her family in Bancroft. Alan was a generous, friendly and loyal friend. He had a great smile and a teasing manner. He was not one to complain (unless absolutely necessary) and left it to his sister to complain on his behalf. The funeral service has already taken place. If you wish, donations can be made to a charity of your choice. Note that Alan was particularly fond of animals. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymilesnewbigging.com.