** The Final Harvest**
Agricultural economics and marketing have lost one of their sharpest minds with the passing of Dr. Richard Murray Alwyn "Al" Loyns at the age of 84. A PhD graduate of Berkeley and a gold medalist at the University of Manitoba, Al knew the value of a well-structured economic model—but never let one get in the way of a good debate.
Al has undoubtedly arrived in the afterlife with a clipboard full of questions. Wherever he is, one can be sure he’s already deep in discussion, trying to negotiate better terms.
Please join us in celebrating and honouring the bountiful harvest of Al’s remarkable life — a life well-lived and rooted in love, hard work, and community — on May 24th at 3:30pm at Thomson 'In the Park' Funeral Home.
Dr. Richard Murray Alwyn Loyns, affectionately known as Al, passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on February 15, 2025. Born on August 30, 1940, he dedicated his life to the study and advancement of agricultural economics, earning his Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley.
Predeceased by his parents Laura and Hugh Loyns, and his sister Shirley Hicks, Al leaves behind a small loving family who will cherish his memory. His son Alain Loyns, and his beloved granddaughter Alarey (Ally), will continue to honor his legacy—Ally through her poetry, carrying forward his passion for writing. Al’s wisdom, humor, and dedication to his work and family will be dearly missed, but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A 'public' celebration will be held in the late spring, details to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Canada.