Dr. Charles Allard, a talented surgeon, successful entrepreneur, and founder of the Edmonton Oilers, is remembered in Edmonton for his life-saving work and his rise to become a prominent millionaire. Here’s how he achieved it. More on iedmonton.net.
Early Career
Born in 1919, Charles Allard grew up in Edmonton. He graduated from St. Joseph High School and earned his medical degree from the University of Alberta. A gifted student, he declined a prestigious scholarship, preferring to complete his studies on equal footing with others.
After postgraduate studies abroad, Allard spent years heading a department at a local hospital. By 1948, he returned to Edmonton and began working at Edmonton General Hospital (EGH) with qualifications from FRCSC and FACS.
Upon starting his work, he was surprised to find that the hospital lacked any medical offices. Determined to address this, he and his family built the nine-story Northgate building, establishing a new standard for medical facilities.
Passionate about medicine, Allard dedicated his life to advancing procedures such as gastric bypass surgery and performing numerous heart operations.
In his free time, he loved to sketch by his patients’ bedsides, sing, and recite poetry. At the age of 36, he became the head of surgery at EGH.
Heroic Deeds
The residents of Edmonton remember Allard for his heroic response to a tragic collision between a school bus and a train in Fort Saskatchewan, which killed 17 children and injured 27. Upon hearing the news, Allard immediately rushed to the scene to assist.
Later, he participated in Edmonton’s first surgery on conjoined twins at Royal Alexandra Hospital under the leadership of Dr. Eardley Allin.
He also took part in numerous charitable initiatives and major capital projects, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his community.
Business Ventures
In 1965, Charles Allard founded Edmonton’s CHQT radio station. He went on to establish the city’s first independent television station, CITV-TV, hiring renowned actors like John Candy. His television assets were later sold for $127 million.
Allard co-founded Paris Investments, later renamed Allarco Developments, which became one of Canada’s largest real estate companies. He also served as chairman and director of Alberta Gas and Chemicals.
By 1968, Allard had transformed his hospital into a facility with 13 departments and assets worth $800 million. His partnership with Crosstown Motors made it the largest Chrysler dealership in Canada. His investments spanned life insurance, methanol plants, and terminals.
In 1971, Allard founded the Edmonton Oilers, then part of the World Hockey Association. The team featured legendary players, including Wayne Gretzky.
Despite his business successes, Allard continued to prioritize medical research and helping others. Over the years, he received numerous prestigious awards, including “Broadcaster of the Year.” He was celebrated as “Edmontonian of the Century” and “Doctor of the Century.”
Final Years
Years of intense physical work took a toll on Allard’s health, leading to heart and vascular problems. In 1991, he passed away, leaving behind six children and a lasting legacy in Edmonton.
After his death, Charles Allard was inducted into the Canadian Broadcasting Hall of Fame and the Business Hall of Fame.