Robert “Bob” Allison age 68, passed away at St. Joseph’s Hospital on Sunday, July 10 at 3:33 a.m. in room 333.
We remember Bob’s lightheartedness and ability to find humor in any situation regardless gravity. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend and advisor to many.
Bob was unusually tenacious and resilient, a big picture thinker, and able to solve complex problems in work and life.
Bob will be sorely missed by his family and all those who loved him.
Bob was born Dec. 7, 1953 in Alameda, California to parents William and Dorothy (Rylands) Allison. The second born, Bob joined sibling William, and became a big brother to Brian, Barry, and Rebecca.
Bob was extremely athletic in his early life including training for and winning state championships for track; he also made the varsity football team his freshman through senior year of high school as a starting running back.
Academically, Bob was a lifelong learner. In childhood, he relished astronomy books, reading everything his school library had to offer.
Bob earned a BA from Kennedy Western University, and dozens of professional certifications. He was an ordained minister, a leader on church boards, and respected as a top professional in his career.
Bob married Cynthia Annette Smith on Sept. 25, 1977 in Lake Jackson, Texas, whom he shared two children. He then married Jacqueline Ann Christianson on Oct. 12, 1984, in Clute, Texas whom he also shared two children.
Bob worked tirelessly to create a happy home for his children, providing any opportunities he could for success and eliminating any divides.
Bob began his work life as a pipe fitter, and quickly grew to foreman. He recognized his talent for risk and began to focus on creating a long-term career in safety management.
Bob obtained a wealth of knowledge and expertise in this field. He was a college professor teaching safety management, and was recognized in BLR magazine for excellence in safety management.
After retiring from McAffee Inc, Bob became the owner and operator of Mill Street Coffee, and later Multi-Service Computers and Repair.
Bob also took on the role of Director of Operations for Flintstone Properties to bond with and encourage growth for his son-in-law Christopher’s company.
Bob enjoyed gardening, and was a Master Gardener. He also spent time writing, learning computer science, watching movies and TV, analyzing the news, playing racquetball and tennis, camping, reading, fishing, playing guitar, and singing (especially with his wife).
Bob had a heart of gold; he volunteered as Chaplain at a nursing home, donated computer services to elderly in the community, and cared for others freely.
Bob weathered many storms in his life, some unimaginable and always found joy. God was his light and pathway to peace.
After the loss of his career in 2009 due to the recession, Bob picked himself up and became an entrepreneur. When Bob lost his feet due to complications with diabetes, he declared “I am not sad, because joy does not come from my feet.” The essence of Bob was how he overcame these obstacles and found his way forward without bitterness.
Bob is survived by his wife of 37 years Jacqueline Christianson Allison, Lynden; children Robert Allison Jr. and spouse Kimberly Renee Allison of Conroe, TX, Brittany Annette Allison of Clute TX, David William Allison and spouse Sydney Anderson Allison of Dallas, TX and Dorothy Allison Howard and spouse Christopher Michael Paul Howard of West Vancouver, BC; grandchildren Faith Bell of Lake Jackson, TX, Hunter Ray Allison of Georgia, Isabella Diane McBeth of Lake Jackson, TX, Andi Annette Darling of Clute, TX, Danielle Elizabeth Darling of Clute, TX, Henrik Christopher Howard of West Vancouver, BC, Viggo Christopher Howard of West Vancouver, BC, Haley Ann Allison of Conroe, TX, Shelby Lynn Collier of Conroe, TX, and Jacob Loren Collier of Conroe, TX; and pets Trudy (dog) and Elsa (cat).
Bob will be greatly missed by siblings William John Allison Jr. of Kansas City, TX, Brian Allison, of Brazoria TX, and Rebecca Allison Davlin of Angleton, TX and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family wishes to thank the staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital for their kindness and care for Bob and his family.
The Memorial service will be Friday, July 15 at 11 a.m. at Gillies Funeral Home, 202 Front St, Lynden, followed by a reception at Bob and Jackie’s home.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Phil: 4:4
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.