Tribute Wall
In Memory of
Derek Pearson Henderson Allen
1947 - 2023
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Peter Adamson posted a condolence
Saturday, May 6, 2023
It was with great sadness when I heard of the unexpected and untimely passing of Derek. This has come as a great shock to all of us who knew him and remember the marvelous man he was.
Derek and I first met at Trinity College in our first year in 1965. My twin brother, David, also at Trinity, also got to know Derek well, and they enjoyed an even closer friendship at Kilcoo Camp. My brother and I, being in Biological and Medical Sciences, were not the typical Trinity students, nor was Derek the typical Arts student. From the outset, we enjoyed wonderful discussions, and not infrequently "arguments" in the true sense of the word. Especially as Derek was studying Marxism, amonst other deep topics of the day, it is particularly notable compared to these times that one could hold differing opinions and build stronger relationships because of, not in spite of, this fact.
I can still picture Derek (as he was in the marvelous 6T9 graduation photograph of him at his funeral) as an upright (in posture as well as morals) young man of serious intent. His intellect was unquestioned, his thoughts reflective, his speech measured, and his tone equanimous. He could have been a surgeon (as are my brother and I) when one thinks of the descriptor, "I may be wrong, but I am never in doubt!" Derek was seldom wrong...
Derek was always respectful and courteous. He could seem a little aloof because of his professorial nature-even as an undergrad, one could see Derek was destined for a distinguished and honoured academic career. However, once one had passed muster with Derek, his warm and loyal demeanor were unquestioned. He had a bit of a mischievous laugh and smile which are memorable and endearing to this day.
Although we had only seen each other infrequently in recent years due to the vagaries of differing career paths, we always enjoyed each other's company when we did, usually at some Trinity event. Derek achieved his rightful place in the pantheon of scholars, teachers, mentors and leading administrators at Trinity College and the University of Toronto. The widely held and deep respect for Derek was richly deserved, and he leaves an outstanding legacy. As a husband, family man and friend, his sterling character will be remembered and cherished.
Godspeed, Derek
Peter Adamson, OOnt,MD,FRCSC
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Carolyn Tuohy posted a condolence
Friday, May 5, 2023
Of the many fine people whom I knew during my years in university administration, Derek stands out for the sheer humanity that shone through his every encounter. His passion for the collegial community, for the understanding of the ethical life, for the idea and institution of the university and above all for its students, was a reminder by word and example of why we are here. It was a great privilege to know him, and like so many others I am deeply saddened by his untimely passing. His life is a model and a legacy for us all.
Carolyn Tuohy
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Mark Palma posted a condolence
Friday, May 5, 2023
Dr. Allen's warm and endearing personality, in tandem with his vast knowledge and polished teaching style, made for my most memorable class during 4 challenging years of Engineering at UofT. Modes of Reasoning, and related topics which Dr. Allen illuminated his room with, was a bright light in the midst of calculus, physics and the lot.
RIP my good man, you've made such a positive contribution to academia and the broader pursuit of knowledge.
Greatest sympathies,
Mark Palma B.A.Sc. 9T9
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Barry Patterson posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 3, 2023
Dear Harry and Kathleen,
It’s been a very long time (ONULP). We are very sorry for your loss.
Barry and Katharine Patterson,
Gabriola Island, B.C.
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Robert Prichard posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
Derek was a prince of a man, remarkable in his dedication to and service of Trinity and the University of Toronto. I treasured his wise counsel and friendship and am saddened by his passing. Derek ranked with the very best of the University. Rob Prichard
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Nathalie Des Rosiers posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
On behalf of the Massey community, I want to offer our deepest condolences to the family of our dear Senior Fellow Derek Allen.
Derek was such an inspiration to so many Junior Fellows and to me. He was always there to help.
We are so grateful for his wonderful contribution to Massey College.
Merci, Thank you Derek,
Nathalie Des Rosiers, Principal, Massey College
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Marilyn Thornton uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
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I can't think of enough wonderful adjectives to describe Derek and to me, he was a rock; so present in my life when I needed someone most. It was truly 'love in action'.
I miss our regular conversations enormously and know he cannot be replaced. Go in peace dear Derek. Marilyn
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David Cook posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
I had the great privilege to work alongside Derek when he was Dean of Arts and I held a similar position at Victoria College. He always brought insight and wisdom to all of us. His support for students at all the colleges was inspiring. He was a great colleague and will be missed by all of us whose lives were touched by him.
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George Shepherd posted a condolence
Monday, May 1, 2023
As one who served with Derek at Trinity College during his long tenure as Professor, Dean of Arts and Vice-Provost, I can attest to his brilliance as a scholar, teacher, and compassionate human being. He was the youngest and last person to be appointed to the academic staff of Trinity before all appointments were subsumed by the University of Toronto. He served in every role with grace and distinction, and I was proud to call him my friend. He has left us all too soon. Rest In Peace, Derek.
George Shepherd
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Paul Chamberlain posted a condolence
Saturday, April 29, 2023
To Margaret and family;
For 57 years beginning at Kilcoo Camp in 1965 Derek and I were such good friends and in fact it was a lunch get together with Derek that influenced me to continue my university education. More recently we collaborated in providing a swimming award at Kilcoo in honour of another Kilcoo friend. Derek was a wonderful individual. While soft spoken he was a strong advocate for what was fair and just.
Like many others, I will miss Derek, but my many memories coming from our friendship will make me smile, and at some times, chuckle.
My sincere condolences to the family.
Paul Chamberlain
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The family of Derek Pearson Henderson Allen uploaded a photo
Friday, April 28, 2023
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