MADDOCKS: Alan Charles of Grand Bend

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Tuesday, October 27 at the young age of 82. Born on January 2, 1944, in Port Talbot, Wales, Alan spent his final hours in the wonderful care of the South Huron Hospital staff in Exeter. The family extends their deepest gratitude to Daniel, Maddie, and Dr. Ryan in the Emergency Department, who provided exceptional comfort and fondly remembered Alan from his previous admission in August, the whole Motor Neuron Disease Team  at London Health Sciences Centre – University Hospital for all of their care, and especially Nurse Charlene that came to the home care visits. Special thanks to Dr. Joshi at Grand Bend Area Community Health Centre that got this brought to attention.

An architect by trade, Alan brought structure and beauty into the world throughout his career. Upon immigrating to Ontario, he contributed his talents to EllisDon and worked alongside the Schultz family building senior citizens’ homes, later taking his expertise out West to Victoria and Calgary. Beyond his career, his deep love for watercolors captured the landscapes of the West Coast and Europe, which still line the walls of his home as a lasting testament to his artistic eye.

Alan was a passionate lover of music and movies, carefully organizing his favorite vast collections onto USBs. Walking into his home, one might hear anything from Neil Diamond, James Taylor Jimmy Buffett to Mozart; he always chose the perfect medley to set the mood, living by the philosophy that “it’s 5 o’clock somewhere.” He loved the ocean and warm weather, whether taking family to Sandbanks, Cape Cod, and Mexico, or sitting on the deck in Grand Bend, smiling under the sun. He shared these bright moments alongside his soulmate, Sybil, his love.

Full of knowledge and zest, Alan was always ready for a good chat about sports, but soccer held a truly special place in his heart. His lifelong love for the game spanned from playing as a young lad, to coaching his sons’ teams, to watching matches on the telly. In his final months, he became a dedicated watcher of all sports, happily enjoying them with the volume entirely off (wink, wink).

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sybil, and his loving children: Philip, Matthew, Emma (Darryl), and Samantha (John). His joy was multiplied through his grandchildren, Morgan, Chelsea, Hayden, and Ashlee, as well as his distant grandchildren, Amber, Tyler, and Danielle. He is also fondly remembered by his dear cousin, Maureen, close family friends Calum and Sheena, and many others. Alan is also remembered by his ex-wife, Anne Maddocks, the mother of Philip and Matthew. Alan’s wisdom, conversations around the table, and competitiveness will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Predeceased by his parents John and Eileen (Jones) Maddocks.

In keeping with Alan’s wishes, a private Celebration of Life will take place with his immediate family. The family deeply appreciates your love, support, and understanding during this time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the ALS Canada or the MS Society in Alan’s honour.