Service of Remembrance Link: Allan Horton Service of Remembrance

Peacefully at the age of 71, Allan Raymond Horton, passed away at the Ian Anderson Hospice in Oakville, Ontario, on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 surrounded by family and dear friends. Beloved father to his daughters Faythe and Christine (Mike) Amatiello, and devoted grandpa to Olivia and Adriano. Allan is also remembered by many family members, a multitude of cherished friends, and his respected colleagues.

Allan's life is marked by his gentle nature, deep compassion, intellectual curiosity, and enduring love for personal connection.

Allan was born in Brantford, Ontario on November 13, 1953, to the late Eva (Snider) and Claude Horton. He soon after became the proud, older brother to Evon (Deborah), Carl (1960-2017 and Tina), and Dan (Tina). Allan cherished his childhood and lifelong memories. He often fondly recalled his times at Labrador Ranch, Thamesford Family Camp, Wesley Acres, and Miller Lake, as well as the many people he was so appreciative to have shared those experiences with.

Allan's intellectual capacity was impressive. He earned an Undergraduate Degree at Spring Arbor College, a Master Degree in History and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Michigan – GO BLUE! - and a Law degree at the University of Windsor. Allan was keenly aware of the privilege of education and was a loyal alumnus of these institutions, but he also deeply valued individual and experiential pursuit of lifelong learning. He was a keen observer and analyst of American history and politics throughout his life, and his commitment to the principles of liberal democracy were evident to all he engaged with on the topic.

After university, Allan married (Tamara Langer), had two daughters, and began practicing and teaching Real Estate Law in 1987. Having felt a call to ministry and service for many years, he began as Board Chair for a charity that served homeless individuals, and then became a pastor with the Brethren in Christ (The Meeting House) in the mid 2000s.  His ministry work continued in his subsequent role working on the frontline at the Salvation Army Gateway shelter in Toronto, and finally as a lawyer and advocate for marginalized and vulnerable people who had entered the justice system.

Though many have marveled at Allan's unique abilities, such as his vast breadth and depth of knowledge, his gift with words, his beautiful singing voice, and his professional accomplishments, he will be most remembered as a kind, tender soul who was a friend to all. He was a gracious man with an endless energy for connecting with others, who somehow had the interest and time to have any conversation with any person on any topic, but most of all, he was an infinitely proud father, father-in-law, and grandpa, who enthusiastically shared his love for his daughters and grandkids at every opportunity. He was a man who loved deeply and was deeply loved - a good and faithful servant.

Donations may be made in Allan's memory to The Gateway