In Memoriam

Allen Frederick Spraggett passed away on July 19, 2022. He was 90. He is survived by his wife, Marion; children, Stephen, Alanna (Peter), Sandra (Bob Spies) (Sc‘80), Dennis and Kathryn (Bobby); proud grandpa to Sean, Carly (Mike), Camille and Eric; brother of the late Charles (Ruth); son of the late Henry and Gertrude Spraggett.

Allen was a journalist, author, broadcaster, psychical researcher, astrologer, and ordained minister. Throughout his life, he was passionate about learning, reading, music, fine art, and his family, including many pets, which fed his soul and provided purpose to his journey. His ability to tell a story with great humour and insight left a lasting impression on all who met him. Perhaps Allen's greatest gift was his ability to empathize, support, and provide comfort to family, friends, and strangers. He relied on these qualities as he pursued the many avenues of his work.

Serving as pastor ordained by the Open Door Evangelical Churches to congregations throughout Eastern Ontario commencing in 1954, Allen studied at Queen's and Queen's Theological College. Eventually his life's work would lead him to be reordained as a Spiritual Science Minister and granted a Doctor of Ministry by the International College of Spiritual and Psychic Sciences in 1986.

Allen worked at the Toronto Star as religion editor (1962-69), daily columnist (1969-1971), and wrote the syndicated weekly column ‘The Unexplained’ (1972-1977). His curious mind led him to research and write 11 books about paranormal activities and the possibility of an afterlife, including biographical works on notable figures related to the field of parapsychology, including: Kathryn Kuhlman: The Woman Who Believed in Miracles (1970) and The Psychic Mafia (1976). Allen became a popular broadcaster in the 1970s and 80s, creating and hosting programs for radio (CFRB, CFNY, and CKMW) and television, including The Occult and innovative panel show Beyond Reason (CBC).

Throughout his career, Allen was sought after as a speaker, lecturer, expert, and consultant with his work, bringing much attention to the developing field of parapsychology. His innovative broadcast programs made information about psychic phenomena, including research in the belief of life after death, accessible to the general public.

Retiring from public life after a difficult battle with leukemia in the late 1980s, Allen primarily practiced as an insightful astrologer and gifted hypnotist for private clients. Allen lived an extraordinary, meaningful life, and the loss of his physical presence among us has gutted his family. His only real regret was having to part from Marion, whose name brought a smile to his lips even as he slipped away. Until his final days, he was delighted to share a laugh or a story with anyone lucky enough to spend a few moments by his side. His genuine interest in talking to someone could make them feel like the most important person in a crowded room.

Now that he's journeyed into the great beyond, he will finally find the answers to questions that shaped his life's work exploring the unexplained.

Lynn passed away May 25, 2022. She is survived by her daughters, Deanna and Danielle; her partner, Mike Darlington; and her sister, Gail Gauthier. She also leaves behind many dear friends.

Lynn worked tirelessly with clients with acquired brain injuries and was a strong advocate on their behalf. She left us too soon and will be deeply missed.

David Edward Richards passed away most unexpectedly on Aug. 5, 2022. Dave was predeceased by his wife of 36 years, Elizabeth Anne Christie, and youngest son, Michael Edward Richards. Dave leaves behind his loving wife of 24 years, Martha; and his children: Peter Richards (Corinne), Jane Brebner (Jim), and Leslie Richards; grandchildren: Kyle (Kate), Annie, Andrew, Callahan, Chloe, Brooke, Jack, Cole, and Ryan; stepchildren: Michele Young (Ted), Mac Plymale (Cassie); grandchildren: Malena, Camryn, Ari, and Caleigh. Also survived by his sister Margo Bulmer, sister-in-law Marlene Wilson, brother-in-law James Christie, and wife, Kathy, and their families.

Dave was born in Chatham, Ont., then lived his formative years in Chicago, Illinois, and Hamburg, N.Y. From there, the family moved to Lambeth, where Dave worked hard and played hard until he moved to Florida in 1997.

Dave had a very successful career in frozen food. He grew up the son of a pioneer in the frozen vegetable industry — his work life highlighted by his tenure at Produce Supply and as vice president of Algonquin Mercantile (Hardee Farms). In 1983, Dave ventured out as a founding partner of Strathroy Foods; a leading grower, processor, and packager of frozen vegetables. He successfully led the business until it was sold.

Dave was passionate about sports. His natural athleticism and competitive spirit led him to enjoy a successful high school career as a football/basketball player at London South Collegiate Institute. After South, he went on to play for the Queen’s Golden Gaels football team as quarterback and defensive back (1956 -1960). He always spoke fondly of his time at Queen’s and of the lifelong friends he made while a student.

Following university, he developed his skills as a strong skier/golfer. He loved his long-standing membership at the London Hunt Club, until he took up playing at Prestwick Golf Club in Florida. Dave also played squash/tennis and was a fan of the Detroit Lions. He was extremely supportive of his children’s athletic endeavours, rink-side and courtside.

Dave lived out his last 25 years in Ormond Beach, Florida. He and Martha have a lovely home that they generously shared with family members; the grandchildren have fond memories of trips down south to enjoy the sun, surf, and golf with grandpa and oma. In 1998, Dave became an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). He consistently attended his group meetings, often taking on the role of sponsor.

Dave will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and AA community. He will be remembered for his kindness, easy smile, and calm, sweet nature.