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
It is with great sadness, to hear of Allans passing, he always treated me with respect in all our challenges over the years.
Jeremy Pryer
Dear Hanne, Inga and families, It was with both shock and disbelief that we today learned of Al’s passing. From our initial meeting with Al, we immediately liked and cared for him not only as a gifted professional but, more importantly, as a friend who possessed a caring temperament and an incisive sense of humour. Prior to engaging Al as my dentist, I had never met a dentist that I liked and who did not frighten me…Al was the exception and always made me feel at ease. We have lost an irreplaceable friend; the the loss is immeasurable. But, know this, we, who knew Al, share with you the burden of his loss…IN PACE REQUIESCAT Brenda and Vic.
We are still in complete shock, as we had been waiting and hoping for a miracle. Dr. Kuzyk was our dentist for many years, and we loved his friendliness and sense of humour as well as his delicate touch. We heard of him maybe thirty years ago through a friend, and were very happy with the recommendation. Dr. Kuzyk and Inge and Hanne were a team, and they worked together in harmony unusual in a family business. They always inquired after our kids, and kept us up to date on their own adventures, including the new brewery business, grandchildren and travel. Dr. Kuzyk seemed to be the embodiment of health, keeping fit by skipping at lunchtime, and by going to a gym. He seemed younger than his years. When he said he had had a bad summer, this admission was so unusual, it set off warning bells. It was unlike him. What a loss! Our hearts go out to Hanne and Inge, Michael and Christina, and the rest of the family. Sincerely, Marion and Darrel, Matthew and Laurence, and Dagmar.
Hanne, Inge & Family,
We are thinking of you and sending our sympathy.
“Death leaves sorrow that does not heal,
Love leaves memories none can steal. ”
Jan & family
Dear Hanne,
I am so sorry to hear of Allan’s sudden death. I experienced his good humour and good friendship as we gained our education together in dental school, I particularly have a fond memory of his electric organ skills as he played “Baby Elephant Walk” on stage during our first year skit. Showmanship was just one of the many arrows Allan had in his quiver of talents and we share your sorrow in mourning his departure from our lives. May he rest in peace.
Ralph and Bonnie Clarke
Procter, BC
Dear Hanne, Inge and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are truly blessed to have known such a wonderful person.
Dianne, Cory and Scott
Dear Hanna and family,
We are saddened to hear of Allan’s passing. We have fond memories of our times at Van Isle marina. Our thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Lori Stocks and Mark Ranson,
To Hanne and your families,
We have many pictures of the happy times we had as neighbours on our boats and out cruising. We’ve been thinking about you a lot over these past few days. Words cannot express our shock and sorrow. Our heartfelt thoughts and feelings go out to you and your family at this time.
love
Lori and Mark
We are saddened to learn of Allan’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Hanne and family. With heartfelt condolences.
Dear Hanne, Inge and families
I was so saddened to hear of your tragic loss, it’s sad and tragic at anytime but somehow especially so this time of year. You have my deepest condolences.
Pam Hyatt