Donald William Allen

Donald William Allen passed away peacefully on September 21, 2026. Don was born in Seattle, Washington on April 1, 1938 to William and Elizabeth Allen and grew up in the Wallingford neighborhood. He was the oldest of five children. After attending St. Benedict’s Grade School and O’Dea High School, he graduated from Seattle University. Don had a 33-year career at the University of Washington, where he was the Director of Grant and Contract Services, and was a long time Husky football season ticket holder. Don was a proud brother, father, and grandfather.

His life was centered on his family and a love of the outdoors. He enjoyed family trips to the cabin on the Skykomish River, annual ski vacations with extended family, and fishing for steelhead and salmon. He was also a dedicated runner, completing 5 marathons including the Boston Marathon. Don loved the game of golf and enjoyed golfing in leagues with his brothers.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Pam Allen; son, Pat Allen, daughter Sara Buerk, son-in-law Jon Buerk, his grandchildren, Griffin, Ellie, and Sydney Buerk; his siblings, Dave (Kathy) Allen, Jane (John) O’Brien, Dick (Judy) Allen, and John (Deb) Allen. We celebrate and cherish the life Don shared with us. He will be dearly missed.

A funeral Mass will be held on 9/26/2026 at 11am at St. Benedict Catholic Church, 1805 N 49th St, Seattle, WA 98103. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Habitat for Humanity.