(May 21, 1951 - October 22, 2024)
It is with deep sadness that the family announces the passing of Alan Golden following a brave battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Alan was the beloved husband of 54 years to Gates Golden (Sudbury), devoted father of Jodie Golden (Ottawa) and Jon Golden (Rachielle of Regina) and cherished grandfather to both Abigail Reimer-Golden and Amina Golden. He is preceded in death by his parents Robert and Dorothy.
Alan and Gates were high-school sweethearts and married when he began a career as an Ontario Provincial Police Constable in Northern Ontario. He later joined the Sudbury Fire Department where he worked as a Firefighter, Fire Prevention Officer, A/Captain, and college Instructor. His Firefighter friends all knew him as “Goldie”. He worked and studied hard to be one of the best and retired after 27+ years. He was honoured for his years of service and commitment, and while he later struggled with occupational injuries and illness, he remained a proud, heroic first responder all the days of his life.
Alan’s wife, kids and grandkids were his greatest pride and joy. They mattered to him the most. He was happiest being connected to them, offering encouragement and support. From hockey and baseball games, dance recitals, homework and science fairs, driving lessons, Christmas celebrations and family trips, snowman making and hand-made Halloween costumes to home renos and backyard oases, he was an active and devoted dad and “Poppa” He was always sure to be just a phone call away with some fatherly advice – he even learned to text and video chat! He often expressed how much he loved his family, cheered them on, and was proud of them. They will miss him immensely.
Alan was known to be strong, stubborn, and sensitive. Behind the work uniform was a gentle giant – the kind of man who would bake a cake with his grandkids, help a neighbour or stranger in need, cry with pride at the accomplishments of his kids and grandkids or shed a few tears over a touching commercial or a well sung song. He told dad jokes, did carpool karaoke to the ‘oldie goldies’ and so many other silly things. He and Gates were amazing dancers – they shared some fun back in the disco days and won several couple dances over the decades. He enjoyed a cold beer, pizza, and fishing. If anyone in the family ever needed something fixed…he likely had a tool for it! These are cherished memories that will last forever.
During his senior years, Alan and Gates RV’d down south – a dream they finally fulfilled before the pandemic. They eventually moved back to Sudbury to enjoy a slower, quieter life with frequent walks and sits at Bell Park, watching movies, doing puzzles and art, and starting most days with a daily breakfast date at their local ‘Timmies’. Alan and Gates did absolutely everything together – they were each other’s best friend and forever life partner – through thick and thin they both enjoyed and annoyed each other - that was their way.
In his final days, Alan was surrounded by his family. They shared fond memories and wishes for the future. Though his passing leaves a significant void in the lives he touched, his legacy lives on. He will be forever remembered. May he now rest in peace.
At his request, there will be no service. The family will privately celebrate and honour his life following cremation.
Memorial donations to the War Amps, a non-profit working to improve the lives of veterans and all amputees, are appreciated.
Cremation services provided by Simple Wishes of the North, Sudbury.