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
Hanne and family
We are deeply saddened to hear of the untimely loss of Allan. Our heartfelt condolences go out to you and family.
Allan was such an extraordinary individual. He approached both his personal and professional life with the highest of standards. We greatly admired his devotion to Hanne and his family, and his tremendous spirit of fun and adventure. We were so fortunate that our children were able to spend time together in their younger years. My boys always loved those times and adored their “uncle” Allan. Allan’s zany but wonderful sense of humour guaranteed much laughter and good times whenever our families got together. He will be missed but certainly never forgotten.
Hanne, we are so very sorry for your loss and are thinking of you and your family. Please know that we are only a phone call away if we can help in any way. May the many good memories of your life together provide comfort to you during this very difficult time.
With our love
Agnes and family
We were saddened to hear of Allan’s passing. Louise and I have fond memories of our times together at Michener Park and the first dental practice in Millwoods. Our deepest condolences to you Hanna and to your family.
I wish to express my heartfelt sorrow to you Hanne and your family for your loss.
Dear Hanne and family
As a dental classmate of Allan’s I was deeply saddened by his sudden and unexpected death. I have many fond memories of our days of dental education.
During this time of sadness may you find comfort in the sympathy expressed by your friends and loved ones.
Donna Bereznicki
Class of 1975
Dear Hanne and family. We are sorry for your loss. Please accept our condolences.
It was with great sadness and a sense of personal loss that we heard of Allan’s passing. Over the 37 years that we knew him we developed a high regard for his professionalism and business ethics. Before long we came to think of him and Hanne and Inge as extended family.
He was a very caring man and it was a pleasure and privilege to know him.His untimely passing has been a great shock to all our family. We watched through his eyes as his children and grandchildren grew up and are aware of how proud he was of them. He has left a fine legacy that will outlive him.
Please accept our sincere condolences,
Geoff, Kathi, Mark and Marysa Williams
Dear Hanne and Family.
Please accept our deepest condolences on the passing of Allan, a friend and colleague.
Warmest regards
Leo and Carron Bilodeau
Hanna and family, I am sorry to hear of your loss. He always had time to talk to me when we met, and I will miss him and his smile. My sympathy to you and your family. Kirk
I have fond memories of our years together at U of A dental school 1971-1975.
My condolences to Al’s family.
Dear Hanne, Inge and families – I am at a loss for words to convey my deep sorrow at this very sad time. Dr. Kuzyk was a wonderful man – always so professional, polite and personable. Please know I am thinking of you, and pray for your peace and comfort in the days ahead. God Bless!