Arland Archibald Abbs was born in Walkerton on September 2, 1937 to parents Elmer and Gladys (Rolston) Abbs. The Abbs family resided in Paisley and in 1943 Arland was joined by a younger brother, Ronald. The boys attended public school in Paisley before completing their high school education in Walkerton. Apparently “playing hooky” wasn’t uncommon for Arland, but we didn’t hear this from his younger brother. 🙂 Throughout his youth Arland was particularly close with his grandfather, Archie Rolston, who was employed on the railway. His influence and stories obviously rubbed off on Arland as he approached the Operator Agent at the railroad station in Paisley upon graduation, inquiring about a job.
At the age of 18 Arland started with Canadian National Railroad. He was trained in Palmerston and began part-time, working “swing jobs” across Southwestern Ontario. This type of work meant that Arland lived out of a suitcase as he was on the road (or maybe better put, on the rails) in different communities regularly. Over time he worked up his seniority and he soon was working full-time. Arland was stationed in the Guelph and Georgetown area. He regularly worked the Saturday to Wednesday shift whereby he reported daily to work from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. Although Arland was given opportunities for a better work week over the years, he remained a “true gentleman” and allowed his co-workers with families to have the more desirable work weeks and shifts. Through the years he experienced everything from steam engines, to diesel electric, freight and passenger trains, always working in the area of passenger service. He retired from CNR Great Lakes Region in 1989, but stayed engaged by being involved with the Georgian Bay CN retirees and CN Pensioners Association in recent years.
In 1965, Arland purchased a cottage at Arran Lake that he soon called home. Although he boarded during the work week throughout his entire career, he always returned home to Bruce County during his time off. In fact, the Abbs family spent much time camping at Arran Lake during the boys’ youth. He enjoyed his time off and would often fill this time fishing, going for walks and perfecting his photography skills. Arland loved playing cards, particularly cribbage and euchre, with friends and family. He was an avid reader who appreciated any good book, especially a history or western novel. Then there were always the Old Autos and old newspapers that Arland enjoyed. To be quite honest, he just loved learning something new. Then there was the reminiscing about the “old days” and he enjoyed good old classic music. In fact, he even played the mouth organ in his day. When he was younger he always had a four legged friend keeping him company. His breed of choice was German Shepherd.
Arland enjoyed storytelling, yet most would describe him as a quiet, soft-spoken, kind gentleman. Apparently he liked to be prompt…. or maybe we should say he was very prompt, as he often arrived early for all commitments. When it came to food Arland was not picky and was always so appreciative when he visited and received a home cooked meal. Arland’s cottage at Arran Lake was not winterized, so every winter he headed into Port Elgin to take up residence there. He was a simple man and did not require fancy living quarters, therefore his winter home was always a small, simple cottage. In his spare time he enjoyed taking in car shows, with Pumpkinfest being top on that list. Sports were also a great pastime for him as he was a faithful supporter of the Maple Leafs and Blue Jays.
Sadly, Arland passed away suddenly at home on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 in his 81st year.
Loving brother of Ron and his wife Vickie Abbs of Hanover. Cherished uncle of Jim, his wife Tracey, of Essex and their children Alisa and Mason; and Kathy, her husband Steve Johnston, of Hanover and their children Keira and Nate. Arland was predeceased by his parents Elmer and Gladys (Rolston) Abbs.
Visitation will be held at Rhody Family Funeral Home, Chesley on Saturday, February 3, 2018 from 11 a.m. until the time of the memorial service at 12 p.m. Spring inurnment in Paisley Cemetery.
Memorial donations to Paisley Baptist Church would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
