DR. ALAN BRUCE GIFFEN November 4, 1930 - January 1, 2022 It is with heavy hearts and a profound sense of loss our family announces the peaceful, but sudden, passing at home of Dr. Alan Bruce Giffen on January 1, 2022, at the age of 91. Son of Daisy and Jim Giffen, and lovingly adored by sister Ruth Watt and her husband Jay Watt (all predeceased). Predeceased by his former spouse Dawne (2000). Loving father of Tara (Ross), Andrea, Merrill and Dana (predeceased). Proud grandfather of Cameron, Kristen and Andrew McCulloch, who lovingly helped care for him and entertain him on a daily basis. Proud grandfather of Brandon Giffen and great-grandpa to Graciella and Scarlett. Loving 'Uncie Al' to David Watt (Gwen), Jayne Watt and Jackie Swales (Kirk) and their families. He will be sadly missed and held dear in the hearts of his many TEGH extended family and friends, many of whom kept in regular contact with him after his retirement. He was always thrilled when his dear friends called him throughout the year and on his birthday. He was also so happy to receive his weekly Tuesday phone call from his longtime, dear friends Warren and Florien. He was blessed with a number of dear friends in Campbellford. Alan proudly practiced obstetrics and gynaecology for over 50 years, primarily at Toronto East General Hospital where he had the profound honor of delivering upwards of 10,000 babies! He had a knack for remembering every patient and always had time for a joke and a laugh with all; there was never a dull moment when Alan was around. Many thanks to all the doctors and caregivers who cared for Alan over the years, with special thanks to Dr. Elizabeth Mui and Dr. Marcus Kargel. As per his wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date when it is safe to meet as a large group. Family and friends are welcome to sign the online guestbook at www.highlandfuneralhome.ca and select Markham Chapel. Memorial donations in honour of Alan may be made to a charity of your choice.

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Published by The Globe and Mail from Jan. 8 to Jan. 12, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Alan GIFFEN

8 Entries

Diana Campbell Shields

January 23, 2023

Dr. Giffen will be forever in our hearts. He delivered my 2 sons who were big babies and my grandson who was even bigger 13lbs 12 oz. and safely. He always made those experiences so much fun !!...You will be forever in our hearts Now you are our Angel !! ha ha !

Rhonda Gill

January 18, 2022

Dr. Giffen delivered 2 of my 3 children. Jacey on April 15, 1977 and Lindsay on January 19, 1984. He predicted their size and sex without the aid of an ultrasound, he was so informed and professional .... Well, if you don´t count the many jokes I endured, lol. Always in my memories, important in my life and so sad to hear of his passing. Condolences to his family and know he won´t be forgotten.

Kathy Wittekoek

January 9, 2022

Dr. Giffen delivered my 2 children. Amy on May 1, 1975 and Brad on Sept. 19, 1980. I will never forget him saying when he delivered my son, "Look, we've got a boy! After 4 daughters, it's about time for me!" I loved his crazy humor. He predicted the sex and weight of both my children without the aid of any ultasound etc. He was spot on!
To the Giffen Family: You already know what a great Dad, grandad and great-grandad you had, but it never hurts to hear it one more time. He was a real gem and will be missed by so many. xo

ANTHONY DALESSANDRO

January 9, 2022

SORRY TO HEAR OF HIS PASSING I WORKED IN THE MAINTANENCE DEPARTMENT FROM 1972 TO 2008 I KNEW DR. GIFFEN VERY WELL HE DELIVERED MY 2 CHILDREN HE WAS SUCH AN AMAZING DOCTOR

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Kim Beattie

January 8, 2022

Dr Giffen saved my life and life life of our son on October 8, 1985. His cord was 2 inches long and we didn´t know it.
I always said Dr Giffen is a gift. To the Giffen family thank you for sharing your Dad & Grandpa with us and all the other families.
The Beattie Family sends their deepest sympathy and love to all of you.

Dr. Robert Hall

January 8, 2022

"Giff" took me under his wing in 1985 when I was a newly minted obstetrician starting at TEGH. It is no exaggeration to say that my career was shaped and influenced by what he taught me. For that and for all the laughs we had I will always remember him with fondness and thanks.

Reid Leslie Caesar

January 8, 2022

To the Familly of Dr. A. Giffen our Deepest Condolences and Prayers . He was a Wonderful Doctor growing up in East York he delivered our 3 children and 3 Grandchildren. Thank you for Your Dedication and Gentle Service . To a Life well lived and served R.I.P. Doc Giffen .

Violet

January 8, 2022

So sorry to read about the loss of Dr. Giffen. I grew up in East York and I don't think there was a woman out there who didn't know about Dr. Giffen. No surprise that he brought more than 10,000 babies into the world. My 34 year old son was one of them and I will always be grateful to Dr. G. for that. My condolences to his family.

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