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ily practice, anesthesiology, and teaching to include a “sideline,” one which inevitably invites curious questioning — among medical profes- sionals and magazine writers alike. “Yes, it can sometimes be unpleasant,” he admits of his role as coroner. “But you do get hardened to it over time. And it’s an im- portant function, an opportunity for the medical community to learn, so even if the scene is grisly, you quickly regain your objectivity. And it has its own scientific ‘attraction,’ because no two circumstances are ever the same.” The Coroner’s function has evolved considerably from its origins in old England (where the title may have been “crowner”) when he was charged with gathering the King’s taxes from the expired. The modern practitioner, Bob explains, is a medi- cal investigator. One in four deaths will require a coroner’s examination, and among those, Bob will order one autopsy. “Any time there’s a sudden, unexpected death, or one during surgery, one of us (Bob is among a rotated group of qualified professionals) is called in,” he explains. “The Coroner’s report provides an explanation which may be valuable for future, similar circumstances.” Like his interest in medicine, Bob developed an affinity for community service as an adolescent. His involvement began as a high school student awarded a trip to Kingston’s Queens University to study the United Nations. “That stimulated my interest in Rotary,” he remembers. “They do wonderful work.” Bob would repay the favour of his youthful experience to another generation of teenagers when he continued his involvement as an adult. As Youth Exchange Chair, he coordinated a pro- gram which allowed year-long exchanges with young overseas Rotarians. remains a charter member of Port Perry’s Rotary Club. Only the weight of his profession- al commitments precluded long-term member- ship in the group’s executive. And with his schedule, who would question that decision? Outright “retirement” isn’t yet listed in this devoted physician’s lexicon. But when that “right” time to retire does arrive, Bob expects to continue with a busy schedule — though of a much different kind. “We both love to travel,” he says. “My wife has relatives in Tasmania, so we'll visit there. And here at home, we'll work around our (Port Perry waterfront) proper- Dr. Allin is a charter member of the local Rotary Club and enjoys the “wonder- ful work” they do in the community. Next month - Part Three “Dr. John Stewart” Photos by J. Peter Hvidsten ty... gardening and such. We enjoy boating in summer and skiing in winter.” With a proud glow, he adds, “And of course we'll have lots of time for (grandchil- dren) Abby, who’s three, Cassie, she’s two, and Callum, now six months. They keep us very interested and very busy!” Some people place value on a job’s prestige or income potential. But others would argue — and Bob Allin surely num- bers among them - that personal fulfillment remains one of life’s greatest rewards. Only a few can say with conviction — 50 years along a demanding career path — that they enjoy their work as passionately as ever. Port Perry can be thankful to claim one of this rare breed as its own. By Scott Mercer Focus on Scugog FOCUS - MARCH 2010 IT