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
So sorry to hear of my second cousin, Allan’s, passing. We had the pleasure of meeting Michael and Karen for the first time last summer, thanks to my sister, Barbara, who was also a long time patient. Our condolences to the family.
To Hanna, Inge and families,
I was very saddened to hear about Allan Passing. All of you made me feel welcome and I always enjoyed my weekly visits. He will be sadly missed but not forgotten. George Schwam
Hanne and Family,
Our Sincere Sympathy to you and your Family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Brian and Bonnie Krysko
Dear Hanne and Inge, Michael and Christina, I am so saddened to hear of Allan’s untimely death. Allan was my dentist for 31 years and was the best dentist ever. Thankfully I’m sure both Inge and he realized this as I said this routinely. Having been my dentist for almost half my lifetime I often joked with him about retiring but he assured me he wasn’t going to retire…I never imagined…I am going to miss you all so much.
I am confident Allan’s smiles will live on in the lives of his patients. I can speak for friends whom I referred to his practice and we all so appreciated the professional dental care you provided to us for so many years.
I am holding you in my heart.
Love,
Nancy Martens
So sad to hear of Allan’s passing. I used to really enjoy our “hallway chats”. One of the the finest dental professionals that
I had the pleasure to have worked with. He will truly be missed!
Dear Hanne, Inge, Michael and Christina and families
We didn’t know Allan well but we always felt like we did because we are all family. It’s hard to imagine what you are going through right now and we are so sorry for your loss of one who was so loved and so larger than life.
May your memories see you through and may your love for Allan keep you all wrapped in the love he had for all of you.
From the Blewetts – Penny, Bill, Nick, Cynthia, Rhys, Evan, Tabitha, Lily and Lotus
Dear Hanne, Inge and family,
My heartfelt condolences to all of you. I will miss Allan’s
kind smile and cheerful greetings on the 5th floor each day.
Kindest regards
Suzanne Bulmer
To Hanne, Inge and their families,
We met Allan, Hanne and Inge some 18 years ago through the dental practice, and over the years developed a strong friendship that surpassed any normal doctor/client relationship. This was in large part due to the incredible warmth and vitality of Allan, who always appeared cheerful and truly interested in whatever was happening in our lives. And Hanne and Inge echoed this generosity of spirit.
When we first learned of Allan’s sudden illness, we assumed it was just a temporary setback, as it was impossible to imagine that anything could get the better of him. I know it is of little consolation at this saddest of times, but I hope everyone eventually realizes that Allan will always be with us, and we will celebrate his life for his positive influence on us and all those who knew him.
With love,
Preston and Lynda
Hanne and family..We are sooo saddened to hear of Allan’s passing. He was truly an amazing man and the love you have for each other was beautiful to see. Hold tight to your memories and know that even though he isn’t here in body, his spirit will live on through you, your children and grandchildren. With our heartfelt thoughts and condolences. Marie,Teresa, Heather, Dr.Padachey and Dr. Hall (Victoria Endodontics)
To Hanne, Inge and families,
Heartfelt condolences at this tragic loss.
As part of your patient “family”, I will always remember Dr. Kuzyk’s laughter and lighthearted approach to life along with his serious approach to my dental health.
He will be missed.
Hugs,
Kathleen