It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Allan C. Kuzyk. Allan was predeceased by his loving mother, Sophie and brother, Robert.
The oldest of three brothers, Allan was born in Edmonton, Alberta on May 24, 1950 to William and Sophie Kuzyk. His childhood was filled with fun summers on his uncle’s farm, and honing practical jokes on brothers, Robert and Gary. Early on, it was apparent he had a special touch with animals, as he adopted a great horned owl and a kestrel during his teenage years.
Allan’s zest for life was rivalled only by his love for his wife, Hanne, whom he met when he was 17. Allan and Hanne wasted no time in bringing two beautiful children (Michael and Christina) into the world while Allan was still in dental school. Allan graduated from the University of Alberta in 1975, and established a practice in Edmonton while teaching part time at the U of A dental clinic. A particularly frigid winter prompted a move of the family to Victoria, B.C. in 1978. Not surprisingly, they were eventually joined by most of Hanne’s family. Allan’s dental practice was like no other: his excellence in his profession combined with the care and support of both Hanne and his sister-in-law, Inge (who worked alongside him for 41 years) made for an unparallelled experience. Many patients felt like family, and it was not uncommon for Allan to have provided continuous care across generations.
Allan’s high standards and all-or-nothing attitude carried over to his personal life as well. Embracing the West Coast lifestyle, Allan and Hanne enjoyed many glorious summers exploring Desolation Sound and the Gulf Islands. Continuing the passion about animals evident since childhood, and continuing his uncommon touch, falconry was next on the list. For years, Allan and Hanne could be seen flying falcons over Pendray Farms on the Saanich Peninsula, while also providing Michael and Christina with the important childhood character-building practice of barn cleaning.
It was a source of great joy for Allan to bear witness to the marriages of both of his children, and the birth of his grandchildren, Logan, Gavin, Sophie, and Daniel. He was the most stylish, handsome, fit, and wacky grandfather anyone could ask for. We were looking forward to many more years of love and laughter together before his sudden, unexpected and unfair illness this September.
Left to honour his memory are his wife, Hanne (together for 9 days shy of 49 years); son, Michael (Karen); daughter, Christina (Eric); father, William (Carol); brother, Gary (Lucinda); sisters-in-law, Inge (Bill), Tina (Roger); and brother-in-law, Niels (Sylvia).
We would like to thank Dr. Wood, Dr. McIntyre, and the entire team at the Royal Jubilee ICU for their excellent and compassionate care.
No service by request, but we ask that you join us in lifting a glass in Allan’s memory.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallbros.com
39 Responses
I can’t believe he’s gone. I always enjoyed my visits with the whole team but talking about sailing made the trip to the dentist something to look forward to. Dr. Kuzyk made me feel like a friend more than a patient. I’d pictured him living to a great old age. He will be missed greatly. I hope you find peace Hanne and Inge.
Dear Hanna Inge and family – I was shocked to learn of Allan’s death just today. Although I was one of his most “difficult patients”, he was always kind and patience with me never losing his temper considering the never ending amount of dental work I required. He was an incredible perfectionist never settling for anything but the best for his patients. Funny but I was looking to seeing him in January to proudly
show him how much my dental hygiene had improved.
The dentist taking over Allan’s practice has enormous shoe to fill but I will never forget Allan and my 30 plus years with him.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the familyat this very sad time. Keep your memories of him close to your heart
Love and hugs
Sue Sloan
Dear Hanne, Inge and family,
I am shocked and saddened to hear of Allan’s passing. He was a true gentleman and a wonderful Dentist. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Much love to you in your time of grief.
Lesley Carere and Derek Paul
Dear Hanne, Inga and family
I am shocked and deeply saddened at the news of Dr. Kuzyk’s passing. He was such a fine man and a wonderful dentist. For twenty-five years, he made a “visit to the dentist” a positive experience for me. I will miss him very much. I am so very sorry for your loss and my thoughts are with you both during these dark days. With deepest sympathy, Genie Wright
Dear Hanne,Inge and Family,
It is with shock and sadness to hear of Dr Kuxyk’s passing.Always professional and always caring.
Even if going to the dentist was not your favorite thing to do,when you walked into Dr Kuzyk’s
office, Hanne’s greeting, Inge’s support and assistance, ALLEN’S smile and approach to his work.
Made you think ‘Now that wasn’t so bad”, problem solved, as you walked out the door.
Hanne and Inge, May your treasured memories help you along the way.
A patient, a friend and members of the family, neighbours
The Doyle Family.
The Doyles.
Hanne, Inge and families:
I am so shocked and saddened to hear of Allan’s passing. He will be sorely missed as he touched so many lives. Please know my thoughts are with you.
With tearful hugs,
Bruce
Dear Hanne and Inge,
I am shocked and so deeply saddened to hear of Allen’s passing. My late husband Ernie and I looked forward to our 6 monthly get-togethers with Allen. He, who took the fear and pain out of dentistry, always had lots to share about his falconry and live aboard tales, as we were both birders and boaters too.
My deepest condolences to you Hanne and Inga and to your family. Allen was a trusted part of our medical team and a delightful man with a great sense see of humour.
I feel so privileged to have known him. Lois
Sorry to hear this. Thinking of you and your kindness to me at Van Isle. Have the Christmas lights you gave me on show tonight. Love, Bruce
Dear Hanne, Inge, and family. I am so so very sorry that Dr. Kuzyk didn’t make it. I was really hoping he would be ok. For over 35 years I felt blessed to have such a wonderful dentist. Lover of cowboy boots and extraordinary human being. He will be sorely missed.