We adjourn tonight’s meeting in memory of Santa Clarita’s first orthodontist and long-time resident, Dr. Alan Barbakow.
Alan studied dentistry and earned his degrees at UC Berkeley and USC School for Dentistry.
When he came to Santa Clarita in the 70s to start his business, there were no dental specialists serving the community
Alan built his now very iconic western-themed office building on Lyons Avenue in Newhall.
From there, he went on to offer orthodontic services for more than 40 years.
Despite eventually having moved out of Newhall to Malibu and retiring in 2013, Alan remained very involved in our community.
More than just an orthodontist who made each of his patients feel special, Alan was an incredible philanthropist.
He was a founding member and president of the Santa Clarita Arts Council and served as board president and member emeritus of the Child & Family Center.
He also served as the president of the Betty Ferguson Foundation and helped found the Foundation for Children’s Dental Health.
I could go on forever about Alan’s contributions to our community.
He was deeply connected to Santa Clarita and was a passionate supporter of multiple causes.
Alan will be greatly missed by all.
He leaves behind his wife, five children and nine grandkids.
Alan passed away last week at the age of 77.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as they mourn their loss.