Beverly ALLEN

BEVERLY EDWIN ALLEN
Beverly was the first of four children born to his proud and loving parents Edwin and Leavon Allen in Regina, SK on March 3rd, 1951. Growing up in Simpson, SK, he became enamoured with the local apothecary and developed a fascination with the pharmaceutical profession at a young age. In his own words, "I am not sure if it was originally the enticement of the ice cream and treats at the soda fountain or the mystery about what went on in the back room where pharmacists concocted prescriptions written by the physicians for their patients. I was possessed with the idea of someday being able to understand more about this profession, its secrecy and the fact that although I was raised on a farm, I was encouraged to go to university and get a degree."
Bev entered the College of Pharmacy at the University of Saskatchewan in 1969, during which time he met the love of his life, Pat Moffat whom he later married in the summer of 1971. Bev finished his degree in 1973, and took work in community pharmacies until he opened his own business in 1977. By 1982, Bev and Pat's family had grown to 6, with the additions of Jodi, Jennifer, Charlie and John. In the years to follow, the Allen family would partake in many adventures together including countless hours traveling in Suburbans, listening to music and discovering the world. Gradually, family activities migrated to their future home, a lakefront property at Fishing Lake, where they shared many more wonderful memories.
As it was with his profession, Bev's life work was centered around the chance to give something back. Over the years he was involved in the recreation and home and school associations, various hockey and soccer teams, and many other community based activities, including a few infamous College Park block parties.
In 1992, Allen Drugs closed its doors and soon after an opportunity presented itself for Bev to share his passion and knowledge of his profession by taking on an Assistant Professor position at the U of S. Bev was the clinical coordinator of the Structured Practice Experiences Program and instrumental in its success. He found it extremely rewarding to work with the students. Bev's work was a labour of love and he was involved in and took presidency of both provincial and national pharmacist associations. His professional accolades were many, including a Pillar of Pharmacy award in 2010 for life-long commitment and contribution to the profession of pharmacy in Canada. Just recently, he was extremely touched to learn that he will receive an Honorary Life Membership Award from the Canadian Pharmacists Association.
Bev's greatest joy was his growing family and his role as "Poppa". Together Poppa and his little ones enjoyed movies, popcorn, music, the lake and time just spent being together. Music played a significant role in Bev's life. He played numerous instruments, sang, and was famous for playing along with his favorite songs by ear on the piano. Most importantly his passion for music has been handed down to his family. Bev's presence in both his personal and professional life will be felt forever.
Bev's legacy is cherished by his family; his wife Pat, daughters Jodi and Jennifer (James), sons Chuck (Jennifer) and John (Meghan), precious grandchildren Jaedyn, Bree, Jenna, Michaela, and Kelan, his father Edwin, sisters Yvette (George), Brenda (Merle), Drena (Terry), sister-in-law Jean (Dennis) and his many special nieces and nephews. Bev's many friends were equally important.
Bev's strength and courage were a constant in his life, most significantly in his battle with his illness. His positive outlook and determination was inspirational to all those around him. He refused to allow his illness to define him and his final moments were peaceful, with his wife and children by his side. His family would like to extend their sincere thanks to Dr. Goubran, Dr. Sabry, and to the many nurses and professionals who cared for him. In particular, special thanks to the chemotherapy nurses, the nurses in ODC, and the palliative care nurses. Words cannot express how invaluable the support of family and friends has and will continue to be.
A service of celebration will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 23rd at the Saskatoon Inn (2002 Airport Drive). Donations in Bev's memory can be made in his name to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon (3rd Floor 103 Hospital Drive Saskatoon, S7N 0W8). Arrangements in care of John Schachtel - MOURNING GLORY FUNERAL SERVICES (306-978-5200). www.mourningglory.ca.
"we'll meet again,
don't know where, don't know when,
but I know we'll meet again".