Obituary
David Walter Allan: A Life of Joy, Laughter, and Boundless Energy
David Walter Allan, 78, passed away on January 24, 2024, in Sandy, Oregon. Known for his boundless energy and love for his family, it's hard to picture a world without Dave zipping by on his bike, kicking around a soccer ball, or cheering loudly for his favorite sports teams.
Born on March 10, 1945, in Walla Walla, Washington, Dave grew up in Cedar Lake, Indiana. He graduated from Crown Point High School in 1963 and went on to Indiana University, where he met the love of his life, Nancy Taylor. They married on July 4th, 1965.
After a brief stint teaching elementary school in Crown Point, Dave and Nancy packed up their lives and headed west to Oregon in 1970. There, they planted roots, raised a family, and instilled a love for the great outdoors in their children.
Dave earned a Master’s in teaching and social studies from the University of Oregon. He taught at Linwood Elementary and later at Milwaukie Junior High.
The Allans welcomed their first child, Jason, in 1971, followed by Heather in 1975, and JoAnna in 1976. Although Heather's life was heartbreakingly short due to Down syndrome and a heart defect, Dave’s love for his children was unwavering. He showed his adoration by being ever-present, often coaching Jason and JoAnna's teams.
Retirement in 2000 didn’t slow Dave down. He dove headfirst into his hobbies, biking dozens of miles daily and training for long-distance rides. In winter, he could be found skiing at Timberline, where Jason and JoAnna also learned the ropes. The family enjoyed adventures in Hawaii and backpacking through the Mount Jefferson Wilderness.
Dave’s sharp mind and curious nature saw him completing a crossword puzzle each morning and dominating family Trivial Pursuit games.
He was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren and cherished his role as Grandpa. Dave will be remembered for his intelligence, infectious smile, and the energy he devoted to his passions and loved ones.
Predeceased by his parents, Evelyn and David Allan; his brother, Phillip Allan; and his daughter, Heather Allan, Dave is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Allan; his children, Jason Allan and JoAnna Coleman; his sister, Barbara Hartoonian; and his cherished grandchildren, Carter, Jace, and Mateo Baptista-Allan, and Luke and Lucia Coleman.
Dave’s life was a testament to living fully, loving deeply, and laughing often. He will be sorely missed, but his spirit of adventure and love lives on in all who knew him.
Please join us on Saturday, August 24, from 4-7 PM at
Milwaukie Community Center,
5440 SE Kellogg Creek Drive.
Dinner and drinks will be provided. Just bring memories.
RSVP to Nancy Allan at [email protected]