Joseph "Philippe" "Frenchy" Lucien Allard

Joseph Philippe Allard, affectionately known to many as “Frenchy,” from Syracuse, NY, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the age of 101 with his daughter by his side.

Born on December 2, 1923, in Manchester, New Hampshire, Phil was raised in the Province of Quebec, Canada. The son of Telesphore Allard and Leonie Poirier, he was one of seven children. He was predeceased by his parents and three sisters, Doris Allard, Charlotte Raymond, and Pauline Brassard; as well as his first wife, Grace Falardeau; his second wife, Iva B. Nichols; and his longtime companion, Hyung Li.

He is survived by his brothers, Edmond and Leo Allard; his sister, Eva Laurin; his cherished daughter, Lynda Allard Giorsetti; and his beloved grandchildren, Julie Siechen (Edward) and Billy McClellan (Barbie); as well as his great-grandson, Eddie Siechen Jr. and several nieces and nephews. Phil also leaves behind his dear friend and former son-in-law, Bill McClellan, who remained a devoted presence in his life until the very end.

Phil’s early career began working with his uncle in Montebello, Quebec which eventually led to positions at the historic Seigniory Club—now the famed Fairmont Le Château Montebello—he worked in roles ranging from the stables to the kitchen and developed skills under the guidance of the club’s head chef and Maitre D that he used throughout his career. At that time, the Seigniory was a members only club serving distinguished guests including Prince Edward of Wales, Queen Juliana of the Netherlands, Bing Crosby, and Joan Crawford. Phil told many stories about his time there and was very proud of his family connection to the area.

Phil served in the Canadian military during his youth. Following his service, he met Grace, the love of his early life. They relocated to New York City, married at the Holy Trinity Church in Brooklyn and welcomed their daughter, Lynda, in 1948.

In the 1950s, drawn by the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, Phil spent three exciting years working at the Sands Casino during its golden era. He eventually settled in Syracuse, New York, in the 1960s, where he found a long and successful career as a waiter, host, and maître d’. He worked at prominent local establishments including the Hotel Syracuse and the Liederkranz Club, where he met his second wife, Iva Nichols.

Phil and Iva shared a deep and devoted life together, known for their daily visits to the Market Diner and Weber’s Restaurant on Syracuse’s North Side. He lovingly cared for Iva until her passing in 2005 at the age of 105, faithfully doing her hair and makeup each day, carrying her up and down the stairs of their Victorian home, and ensuring their shared rituals remained intact.

Later in life, Phil found companionship again with Hyung Li, with whom he shared many happy years until her passing in 2021.

Phil was a man of remarkable vitality and grace. Always impeccably dressed in a suit and tie, with his hair flawlessly styled, he remained independent and energetic his whole life. He was still dancing in his 80s, climbing trees in his 90s and navigating Syracuse with ease at 100 to visit his favorite spots.

His greatest pride was his great-grandson Eddie. He was overjoyed to witness Eddie’s high school graduation in 2022 and had hoped to attend his graduation from RIT next spring. In his final days, he asked about that date, his love and pride undiminished. We all know that he will be there in spirit on that important day.

Phil lived his life with charm and unshakable strength. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience and devotion that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held this summer. Details will be shared at a later date via Facebook.

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