Allan PARKER Obituary
1949 - 2012
It is with sadness that we announce that Allan passed away peacefully on June 13, 2012, with his wife Boni and daughter Cassandra by his side. Allan will be remembered as a loving Husband of 35 years, a wonderful Father and Father-in-law, and a devoted Son to mother Muriel and Brother to sister Pat. Allan will also be dearly missed by many to which he was a trusted and admired friend. A distinguished Lawyer (BA, LLB, ML, QC), Allan's passion was his career in law and justice. Much respected for his work in the pro bono community, he has left a legacy as an advocate, leader, and mentor. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 23 at 1:00 p.m. at Gilmore Park United Church, 8060 No. 1 Rd., Richmond, BC. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Allan's name to First United Church and Mission, a cause close to his heart.
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53 Entries
Susan Henry
June 14, 2013
I was just thinking about Allan this morning, before I came to work; it has been about a year since he died. He will certainly not be forgotten - such a lovely, smart, kind individual.
Dan Mulligan
July 21, 2012
For Boni and Cassandra; I recall Boni and Allan's kindness to my father in law in Nanaimo in 1985, showing him around their garden.
July 1, 2012
Allan Parker was my PLTC instructor and when I was struggling to get the last few points on the solicitor exam and found them-I thanked Allan Parker. He said don't thank me you did it!! This was a profound remark and it taught me something about wise teachers. Allan came into life with a calling and he found it in the equal provision of justice to all people. I will try to carry on as he would have with integrity, courage and hope!
Sasha Pawliuk
June 27, 2012
Back when I was a baby lawyer with LSS, Allan was the resident expert on all things related to debtor relief, and I hounded him mercilessly for advice and direction. He was unfailingly wise, knowledgeable, kind and helpful, and always served it up with his gentle sense of humour. I'm so sorry to hear of his passing, and I offer my condolences to his family. A great loss.
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Clodagh O'Connell
June 25, 2012
Allan was one of those lovely and unique people who treated everyone the same. I was lucky enough to have him as my co-boss one law student summer. He was kind, so smart, and endlessly supportive. An inspiring man. I am so glad I knew him.
Paul Henry
June 24, 2012
I was honoured to have been a poverty lawyer at the Legal Services Society at the same time Allan was one and have since connected with Allan through the Law Foundation and Allan's work with the Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society. He was someone, for whom I had the most tremendous respect. He was committed to justice in the most practical way; unfailngly courteous and a gentle man in the very best sense. I wish my warmest condolences for his family.
Kari Boyle
June 23, 2012
These lovely messages show how deeply Allan touched so many people. His contributions to access to justice will endure and continue to inspire others. We owe so much to Allan and will miss his generosity, caring commitment, expertise and wisdom. He was a great friend and servant leader.
Marie Murtagh
June 23, 2012
Dear Boni
I am so so sorry for your loss.....please know that I am thinking of you and your family.
Judith Clark
June 22, 2012
I met Allan when we worked together on a committee supporting the Mission at First United. He was so impressive: wise and kind and committed. I am sorry for the loss that not only his family and his many colleagues but all the vulnerable people who benefited from his many good works in aid of the public good. May we all be inspired by his example.
Gayla Reid
June 22, 2012
I had the privilege of working with Allan at Legal Services and Access Justice. He was a gentle man whose commitment to social justice came from his innermost self.
My deepest sympathy to all of his family.
Jane Rukaria
June 22, 2012
I never met Allan but as a new African immigrant lawyer in Canada, his and Dugald's work in social justice inspired me to volunteer for the organization. He will be missed. Rest in peace. My prayers are with your family.
Jane Henderson
June 22, 2012
Mark (Horne) and I are so sorry to hear of Allan's death. His contribution was immense, particularly for those who benefited from his passion for access to justice. Our thoughts are with his family, he will be missed by many.
Jimmy Yan
June 22, 2012
Less than a month ago, after I came back from my vacation, Mr. Parker warmly congratulated me on my wedding and gave me what he called a “fatherly” hug. After receiving Jamie's mourful email on June 14th morning, I was shocked and saddened by the dreadful news.
Mr. Parker was highly professional, ethical and respectful. Over a year ago, when I first heard Allan would assumed his new title of Program Consultant with Access Pro Bono before the announcement was officially made, I walked to his office and told him that his fair words, virtuous intent, and ethical act had demonstrated great integrity and justice, and it had been my honor to work with him in the past. I am pleased that I had the opportunity to express my admiration and gratitude to Allan.
My deepest condolences to Mrs. Parker and the family. I will remember Allan as a superb employer, co-worker, and mentor.
Carol Hickman
June 22, 2012
So sorry to hear of Allan's passing. His contribution to the legal profession is immeasurable. You will be missed. Carol Hickman
Robin Bajer
June 22, 2012
Allan's passing is a huge loss for the legal community and for those working towards greater access to justice. Allan was always thoughtful, generous, full of wisdom, uplifting, and calm. I will miss his warm presence, his smile, and his deeply compassionate spirit.
barbara findlay QC
June 22, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of Allan's passing. I knew him way back in his days as a legal aid lawyer and respected him very much.
CLAS
June 21, 2012
Allan's immense contributions to social justice causes will remain a lasting legacy. He was a valued past director, partner and friend of our organization. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all of us. With deepest sympathies from the Board and Staff of the Community Legal Assistance Society.
Patricia Fleming
June 21, 2012
Allan was a humble, gentle and kind man. His grace and goodness touched those who knew and worked with him like water in a dry garden. My sincere condolences to Boni and family.
Soraya VanBuskirk
June 20, 2012
Allan was such a great supporter when I started in advocacy and passionate about the work. Always inspiring and great to talk to. He will be missed with great appreciation in my heart.
June 20, 2012
Allan was an early advocate of the Debtor Assistance Program in BC. I can remember him as a young 23 year old travelling to Edmonton Alberta to assess the Alberta program in 1972 - then recommending the program and legislation to the Minister, Phyllis Young and to Bill Neilson Deputy Minister of Consumer Affairs of the day in BC (1972-75). It was a very effective and successful program created to provide social and economic justice to over committed debtors in British Columbia.
Allan spent a lot of time training DAB staff and community groups throughout the years. Our Counselors and clients benefited from his unselfish giving of time and legal expertise. He was always willing to help.
Perhaps all of us, who shared the early days and fought the good battle, will raise a salute to Allan on Saturday June 23rd.
Allan Parker made a difference!
Harry Atkinson
Director Debtor Assistance
(Retired 1997)
Margaret Ostrowski Q.C.
June 20, 2012
So sorry to hear of Allan's untimely passing. He was dedicated to helping those who really need help. I have worked with him on Access Probono files. He was always professional, kind and thoughtful.
Margaret Johnson
June 20, 2012
Allan it was my privilege to have known you. I will always remember your kindness and guidance over these many years and I will miss you. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time.
Martha Sandor
June 20, 2012
I was deeply saddened to learn of Allan's passing. He was my PLTC instructor 23 years ago and I recently had the pleasure of reconnecting with him through Access Justice/Access Pro Bono. He was a delightful man, an excellent and thoughtful teacher and a dedicated pratitioner. I will miss him.
Ashley Singh
June 20, 2012
You are missed and remembered always.
Meg Shaw
June 20, 2012
I had the honour of knowing Allan as a legal colleague through the Canadan Bar Association and the Law Society of British Columbia. He was a respected, devoted advocate for pro bono work. He will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences to Allan's family.
Peter Van Baggen
June 20, 2012
I was privileged to have the honor of being a neighbor to Allan for 20 tears, and enjoyed working side by side with on many projects. He gained my respect by being the most non-judgemental and supporting man I have ever known. I will miss him dearly.Rest in Peace, old friend.
Phil Dougan
June 20, 2012
Allan was instrumental in guiding Access Justice through the difficult times after Dugald Christie's death; and on to the merger with Probonobc. Our new organization, Access Pro Bono, is, in no small measure, a testament to Allan's delight in seeing justice provided to the disadvantaged, and his passion to ensure Canada is a just society for all who live here. We will dearly miss him.
Phil
John Pavey
June 19, 2012
I was truly shocked and saddened to hear of Allan's passing. He was always a gentleman, and truly kind at heart. His devotion to the plight of the under-privileged will be missed. My prayers are with his family, as well as his colleagues at Access Pro Bono, and his many friends.
Ann Pollak
June 19, 2012
Allan was such a fine human: his steadfast commitment to justice for the least-loved among us, his quick wit, and his success at nurturing his inner flower-child in the withering cynicism of the 21st century. Peace, compassion, justice. Dream on, Allan. We miss you already.
Skylark Disraeli
June 19, 2012
I broke down in tears and sobbed when I read this news... Allan was a man of kindness, generosity, humility, compassion...all bundled in humour, wit and sharp intelligence. He was a mentor for me in many ways. In providing feedback on some of my earliest work, for example, he (a person I respected so much) helped me believe I had a contribution to make; this meant the world to me. He helped me believe in myself, which allowed me to, in turn, support others. (I still have the hand written comments he gave me 14 years ago!) Thank you, Allan! My comfort today is that I believe Allan knew full well how much we all loved, respected, appreciated, and enjoyed him, and also that the justice Allan so cared about will carry on in those of us he taught. To Allan's family: Thank you for sharing him with us all these years. My sincere condolences to you...
James Deitch
June 19, 2012
Allan was a valued colleague at the Legal Services Society and provided me with a great deal of guidance during my early times in management there. Subsequently he became a friend who I could rely upon for both good advice and warm support. I will miss his insights greatly in future.
Sandra Sarsfield
June 19, 2012
Allan was a gracious and kind man and a wonderful mentor as a lawyer, so generous with his time and expertise. Always respectful to all regardless of "station in life". A great loss to our community. My sincere condolences to his family.
Dean Donna Greschner
June 19, 2012
Allan's classmates and many friends at UVic Law will be deeply saddened by his too-early departure. His commitment to access to justice was inspirational. Our hearts are with his family.
Stuart Rennie
June 19, 2012
I first met Allan when he was my PLTC instructor for the Law Society Bar examination course many years ago. Allan impressed me then with his extensive knowledge of law and practice, his humour and his kindness. Over the years, I worked with Allan in his volunteer capacity with the Canadian Bar Association and I greatly respected Allan's passion for access to justice. I am very saddened by Allan's death. I will miss Allan's insight and sensitivity.
Mary Nicol
June 19, 2012
Allan Parker was the mediator at a court case, and his fairness, kindness and compassion towards me were appreciated and will never be forgotten.
Carol-Ann Hart
June 19, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of
Allan. I was very fortunate to have him as my instructor in the PLTC. Our paths crossed again years later in the provincial court mediation program. The world has lost a wonderful, kind person. My condolences to Allan's family.
Jennifer Spencer
June 19, 2012
I am so sorry to hear the news of Allan's passing. He contributed greatly to justice and the people of this province. He will be greatly missed.
David Griffiths
June 19, 2012
It is hard to imagine the void that is left with Allan's passing. For many years Allan impressed me with his practical guidance and common sense. I can almost hear him saying to us now, "you will all find a way to carry on". May that inspire us to continue the work he started.
Roberta Wong
June 19, 2012
I would like to extend my sincerest sympathy to Allan's family. His sudden passing was such a shock. I worked for many years with Allan at Legal Services and Access Pro Bono. He was so dedicated and passionate about his work; and his kindness and thoughtfulness will always be remembered.
June 19, 2012
All who knew Allan will testify to his integrity and devotion to the cause of access to justice. For me personally, he was the real deal in the world of social justice, a calm, assured personality who spoke softly but with deep conviction. I will miss him dearly.
Dale Darychuk, APB Chair
Emily Mayne
June 19, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of Allan's passing. Our community of social justice advocates will miss him and his contributions so very much. I will also personally miss his sense of humour and his gentle, caring, principled way of being a humanitarian force in the world. Bye Allan and Namaste friend xox
June 19, 2012
I always appreciated him at the Law Foundation training conferences-my sympathies to his family and friends.
Terry Intermela
Jess Hadley
June 19, 2012
I was lucky enough to have Allan as a mentor and colleague in my poverty law practice. He was an exceptionally modest, gentle, committed, and kind person and I will miss him a great deal. I know that many others in the poverty law community will feel the same way. My heart goes out to his family - I am thinking of you in this difficult time.
June 19, 2012
Like the ripples in a pond, the work of one man spreads out and touches the lives of many. Rest in peace Allan your work is done.
Don McConnell - Nanaimo, BC
Karen Hobbs
June 19, 2012
Two Advocates at MPA have worked with Alan in some way. He was a fine man. What a shock. Our condolences to the family and to Acess Pro Bono
Susan Henry
June 19, 2012
The comments people have written so far about Allan bring me to tears.These are perfect tributes to what a talented, kind and decent (and funny!) person Allan was. Many of us in the advocacy community owe him a great debt for his calm, patient mentoring and steadfast support. If only he could know how much he meant to so many people -
Jim Russell
June 19, 2012
Allan was a wonderful, supportive colleague and friend for close to two decades. From his early years as a consumer advocate through both the good and difficult years with legal aid, his commitment to social justice was unwavering. His intellect, integrity and wicked wit will be greatly missed by all who knew him. These same qualities also made him a formidable advocate for society's most vulnerable both as a lawyer and volunteer. To Bonnie and family, my utmost sympathy.
Drew Jackson
June 19, 2012
Allan's commitment to helping improve access to justice was truly inspirational. Everyone listened when he spoke in that thoughtful, gentle and convincing way of his. He made everyone around him better. He will be sorely missed.
Frank Kraemer
June 19, 2012
I am shocked and saddened by Allan's death. We worked together for more than 10 years at PLTC and Legal Services Society. He was an execeptional humanitarian, principled in his daily actions and a lot of fun to work with. Although we did not speak often in recent years, when we did there was a level of warmth, caring and mutual respect that I will sincerely miss.
Sylvia Lane
June 19, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to Allan's family at this difficult time. I only knew Allan from the Legal Advocate Traning Conferences, but he was always there if someone needed advice or information. He will truly leave a void within the legal community.
Jamie Maclaren
June 19, 2012
Words cannot convey how much everyone at Access Pro Bono misses Allan. He was a wonderfully dedicated co-worker, mentor and "soldier for access to justice" (as he often described others in our field). But first and foremost, he was a loving and ever-positive friend. Even amidst darkness and struggle, he saw and pursued the good in things.
We miss him dearly.
Jonathan Vogt
June 19, 2012
Allan was easily one of the finest, most decent people I knew. He was an inspirational faculty member during his years at BC's bar admission course (PLTC), and always good company. He was uncommonly devoted to the common good. If only the world had more like him ...
June 19, 2012
If ever there was a "scholar and a gentleman", it was Allan. His gentle presence wove its way throughout my life, and guided it in some important ways. Dear friend, I will remember you always, and love you forever.
Denice
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