With gratitude for a life lived with purpose, love, and unwavering strength, we celebrate the remarkable journey of Allan Leon Zemp, who passed away on November 20, 2025, at the age of 87.
Allan was born in Edmonton, Alberta on May 21, 1938, and from his earliest days, he carried with him the values of hard work, service, and devotion to family. On June 19, 1957, Allan married his beloved sweetheart, Thora Broadbent, beginning a partnership filled with love, resilience, and adventure. Together, they began their life in Coutts, Alberta, eventually planting deep roots in Calgary, where they raised their five children: Ricky Allan, Terry Leon, Teresa Rose, Deborah Lee, and Troy Darren.
Their home was one of warmth, laughter, and the strong bond of a family built on love. Allan was a man who didn’t just work hard, he lived hard work. As the founder of ABC Window Cleaners, he became known not only for his dedication but for the rare joy he found in physical labour. He may have been the only man who truly loved when it snowed. Neighbours could always count on him to clear not just his own driveway, but often the entire block, finding genuine happiness in serving others.
Through his skill, integrity, and relentless work ethic, Allan built a beautiful life for his family. He helped people “see a bit brighter” not only through his profession but through his example. One of the proudest accomplishments of his career was securing the very first contract to clean the iconic Calgary Tower. His work drew widespread attention, interviews, photographs, newspaper features, and he held that contract with pride for 25+ years. But Allan’s greatest joy was his family. He ensured that his children never went without and created memories that will be cherished forever, family trips, summers at Mara Lake, and traditions that continue to bind generations together. After retiring in 2006, Allan and Thora moved to Cardston in 2007, where they spent their later years surrounded by community and family.
When Thora passed away on January 14, 2023, Allan’s heart was forever changed. Though he seldom revealed the depth of his grief, his strength and quiet resilience remained. Allan spent his final 23 months in the Cardston Auxiliary Long-Term Care facility, where his strong, hardworking body eventually found rest. He leaves behind a powerful legacy through his five children, 24 grandchildren, and 34 great-grandchildren, who will carry his strength and love forward.
Dad, your love, your example, and your legacy will stay with us always.
We will miss you every day. We love you.
The Funeral Service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Cardston Alberta West Stake Center, on Saturday, November 29th, at 2:00 p.m. Friends may meet the family on Saturday at the church from 1:00 – 1:45 pm prior to the service.
Interment to follow in the Leavitt Cemetery, Leavitt, Alberta.
Allan was born in Edmonton, Alberta on May 21, 1938, and from his earliest days, he carried with him the values of hard work, service, and devotion to family. On June 19, 1957, Allan married his beloved sweetheart, Thora Broadbent, beginning a partnership filled with love, resilience, and adventure. Together, they began their life in Coutts, Alberta, eventually planting deep roots in Calgary, where they raised their five children: Ricky Allan, Terry Leon, Teresa Rose, Deborah Lee, and Troy Darren.
Their home was one of warmth, laughter, and the strong bond of a family built on love. Allan was a man who didn’t just work hard, he lived hard work. As the founder of ABC Window Cleaners, he became known not only for his dedication but for the rare joy he found in physical labour. He may have been the only man who truly loved when it snowed. Neighbours could always count on him to clear not just his own driveway, but often the entire block, finding genuine happiness in serving others.
Through his skill, integrity, and relentless work ethic, Allan built a beautiful life for his family. He helped people “see a bit brighter” not only through his profession but through his example. One of the proudest accomplishments of his career was securing the very first contract to clean the iconic Calgary Tower. His work drew widespread attention, interviews, photographs, newspaper features, and he held that contract with pride for 25+ years. But Allan’s greatest joy was his family. He ensured that his children never went without and created memories that will be cherished forever, family trips, summers at Mara Lake, and traditions that continue to bind generations together. After retiring in 2006, Allan and Thora moved to Cardston in 2007, where they spent their later years surrounded by community and family.
When Thora passed away on January 14, 2023, Allan’s heart was forever changed. Though he seldom revealed the depth of his grief, his strength and quiet resilience remained. Allan spent his final 23 months in the Cardston Auxiliary Long-Term Care facility, where his strong, hardworking body eventually found rest. He leaves behind a powerful legacy through his five children, 24 grandchildren, and 34 great-grandchildren, who will carry his strength and love forward.
Dad, your love, your example, and your legacy will stay with us always.
We will miss you every day. We love you.
The Funeral Service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Cardston Alberta West Stake Center, on Saturday, November 29th, at 2:00 p.m. Friends may meet the family on Saturday at the church from 1:00 – 1:45 pm prior to the service.
Interment to follow in the Leavitt Cemetery, Leavitt, Alberta.