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 1st, 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 long time, 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.
Condolences from family and friends
Posted by Gilda DeSousa | 01-Feb-2022
Omg what a surprise I was thinking about my doctors in Toronto as I am now 59 and live in rural Nova Scotia .People come and go in our lives but Dr.G was an amazing person and Doctor my children Natasha ,Jason and Scarlett all are here today as a result of those skillful hands.I remember when my son was breaching and Dr.G put his stealth hand in there and managed a miracle ,always in my heart .P.s my first born came along and I received a bottle of brandy well that was totally monitored by Dr.G. Who said he was looking out for me and told me he would dispose of it!lol fantastic funny and I’m totally saddened by his families loss.xx
Al welcomed me to the TEGH family in 1994. Al always had a mischievous smile and a funny story, most of which could not be repeated. I enjoyed visiting him at the farm and going with him to the opera.
Al was well loved by essentially everyone at TEGH but had a special place in the hearts of the Department of Anesthesia. I think I can speak for the whole department in saying that we miss him dearly.
Gordon Robison, Anesthesia