Obituary of Robert Leonard Dallison

Lt. Col. Robert Leonard Dallison (Ret.) July 29, 1935 – June 18, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Leonard Dallison, who died peacefully on June 18, 2025, at the age of 89. Born in Montreal in 1935, Bob lived a long and full life marked by devotion to family, community and country, quiet strength, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering kindness.

Bob attended both the Royal Roads Military College and the Royal Military College of Canada and, following graduation in 1958, was commissioned into the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry. He received a BA (history) from RMC and a BA (history and international studies) from the University of British Columbia. He served for thirty-five years with the Canadian Army, obtaining the rank of lieutenant-colonel, and ending his career as chief of staff of the Combat Arms School at CFB Gagetown.

After retiring, he maintained his life-long interest in history and heritage, including serving as the President of Fredericton Heritage Trust and as the New Brunswick representative on the Board of Governors for Heritage Canada. From 1992 to 2002, he was director of Kings Landing Historical Settlement, where he brought his deep appreciation for Canadian history to life for countless visitors.

A published author and passionate historian, Bob wrote several works on the history of New Brunswick, reflecting his lifelong dedication to preserving and sharing the stories of those who built this great province and country.

He was predeceased in 2019 by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Sharon, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, partnership, and cherished memories. Their adventures included international military postings that lead to a lifetime of embracing their love of travel, terrifying their children as they fearlessly planned adventures to far flung regions of the globe.

In his later years, Bob found companionship and great joy with his partner, Nancy, with whom he shared the past five years. Together, they continued to live life with passion, traveling the world and making new memories with the same spirit of adventure and curiosity that defined Bob throughout his life.

Bob is survived by his children: Kevin Dallison (Mary) of Sarnia, ON; Michael Dallison (Gillian) of Calgary, AB; Kerstin Wilbur (Patrick) of Rocky Mountain House, AB; and Denise Steeves (Jason) of Moncton, NB. He was a proud grandfather to three grandsons, whose lives he touched with humour, wisdom, and deep affection.

He is also survived by his sister, Jean Leonard, and brother, Frank Dallison.

Bob will be remembered for his gentle leadership, intellectual integrity, and steadfast love for his family and country. His legacy endures not only in the institutions he helped shape and the books he authored, but in the hearts of all who had the opportunity to know him.

Visitation will take place at York Funeral Home, 302 Brookside Drive on Friday, June 27, 2025 from 2 – 5 pm. Interment will take place in Fredericton Rural Cemetery.

For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the Nature Trust of New Brunswick. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com