REITA MARGARET ALLISON (SMITH)

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REITA MARGARET ALLISON (nee SMITH) Reita Allison passed away peacefully at Golden West Centennial Lodge, with staff and loved ones at her side, on Tuesday, March 4, 2008. Born November 27, 1906 in Winnipeg, she was one of five children brought into this world by Louisa Mowat and Earl Marcus Smith. Reita is predeceased by her sisters, Lola and Dorothy as well as her brothers, Gordon and Bill. Reita married G. Carlyle Allison in 1928 and gave birth to her son Gordon in 1929. Carlyle progressed in journalism and was editor in chief of The Winnipeg Tribune. He was a close friend and advisor to John Diefenbaker and in 1958 was appointed to the Broadcast Board of Governors. They moved to Ottawa where Reita became good friends with Olive Diefenbaker. Reita was well known for her wonderful dinner parties, for her beauty and bold fashion sense, and for her ability to win at cards. She was artistic and had a deep appreciation for detail and color. Reita took up oil painting and proved to be very talented while studying with several members of The Group of Seven. In 1965 Reita and Carlyle returned to Winnipeg where she remained for the rest of her life. She was predeceased by Carlyle in 1972 and her son Gordon in 1999. Reita is survived and will be remembered by her granddaughter, Eve Atkin, her husband Bob and their children, Cassandra and Michelle. She will also be missed by her friend, Elisabeth Janzen, the wonderful caring staff at Golden West, and her nieces and nephews. A service will be held on Monday, March 10 at 2:00 p.m. at Golden West Centennial Lodge, 811 School Road, Winnipeg, with a reception to follow. Flowers are gratefully declined. If desired, donations may be made to Golden West Centennial Lodge, 811 School Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2Y 0S8: or to any favourite charity.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 07, 2008