Allan Balland Sinclair was born in 1920. During the Second World War he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps and spent time in England, North Africa, Italy, France, and The Netherlands. He served until 1945, marrying his wife in 1946 after returning home.
Early Life
Allan Balland Sinclair was born on October 15th, 1920, to Garnet and Elizabeth Sinclair. His siblings were Ruby and John Sinclair. His early years were spent at Norway House before moving to Dufferin Avenue in Selkirk at the age of four. When he was ten years old, his mother passed away, and his sister, Ruby took on the task of raising her brothers, as well as her own daughter, Doreen. Allan’s childhood was full of adventure and rambunctious activities which fueled many stories told to loved ones later on. He was commended by the Town of Selkirk for his quick thinking and bravery when he leaped into the river to rescue a family who’s car had rolled into the water.
Military Career
His bravery served him well during the Second World War. He was too young to enlist without his father’s permission, but that didn’t stop him. He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps and spent time in England, North Africa, Italy, France, and The Netherlands. He served until his discharge on October 13, 1945. By the time he returned home, he was fluent in Italian.
Post Military Career
After the war, Allan moved to Favorable Lake in Northwestern Ontario where he began his mining career and met his future wife, Muriel.
Allan and Muriel married on July 15th, 1946 in at Christ Church in Selkirk. Fellow Dufferin Gang members were in attendance with Fred Little giving her to be married, Helen Little as the matron of honour, and Harold Little as the best man.
Continuing his career, Allan also worked in Geraldton and Levack after moving to Ontario in 1948 to work for the International Nickel Company. Allan retired at the age of 65 and spent his time fishing and hunting. He enjoyed many years at his camp in Biscotasing, Ontario.
Allan Sinclair passed away on June 1st, 1988, at the age of 68. He is buried at the Maple Crest Cemetery in Dowling, City of Greater Sudbury, Ontario. His two children, Laura and Charles (named after Charles Griffiths) have many fond memories of their father, member of the Dufferin Gang.
Allan Sinclair Collection
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Allan Sinclair, 1938, Laura Hynes
Source
Laura Hynes
