David Conkling Allen, age 95, formerly of Traverse City, MI, died Monday, November 10, 2025, at Gaslight Village Memory Care in Adrian. He was born October 21, 1930, in Kalamazoo, the son of the late Warren and Marcia (Conkling) Allen.
David grew up in Kalamazoo where he graduated from Central High School with the Class of 1948. After several years at Kalamazoo College studying pre-med and pre-engineering, David selflessly enlisted in the United States Navy in January of 1952. He proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict until his honorable discharge in 1955. He then finished his education at Western Michigan University and Michigan State University. On December 12, 1959, in East Lansing, he married Lois Margaret Jorgensen. Together they raised two children and enjoyed over 65 years as captain and admiral on their life’s voyage.
Both certified as educators, David and Lois moved to Lake Ann, MI in the late 1960’s where he taught at Interlochen Arts Academy. In 1975, they moved north to Traverse City, where Lois taught 3rd and 4th grade and David taught senior high mathematics for Traverse City Area Public Schools. He retired in 1988, and embarked on a series of adventures.
Christian by faith, David and Lois were devoted longtime members of Central United Methodist Church in Traverse City. David served as Secretary of his son’s Boy Scout troop for many years and was a member of the Maritime Heritage Association. He and Lois served many years as Cherry Festival Ambassadors. In retirement, David obtained his private pilot’s license and became a member of the Civil Air Patrol. Notably, in his last year on earth, he was given the opportunity to fly a plane one more time, a memorable experience for the entire family.
After his family, David’s second love in life was the water. He sailed his entire life, and eventually obtained a sailing charter license, becoming a certified captain. He and Lois traveled the Great Lakes in a series of vessels they named “Recess,” and both crewed on the schooner “Madeline”.
In addition to sailing, David and Lois shared a love of travel, visiting all 50 states together as well as making a number of overseas trips to Europe. Norway was a favorite destination, having made a lifelong friend in the Norwegian exchange student they hosted from 1972 to 1973.
David is remembered for his outgoing and friendly personality, and his many areas of expertise, including construction and woodworking. His genuine compassion for others and competitive spirit will forever be remembered and cherished.
Surviving is his wife, Lois of Adrian; a son, Matthew (Meghan) Allen of Ann Arbor; daughter, Maryann (Arthur) Woodbury of Manti, UT; five grandchildren, Susie, Karen Jo, Eric, Zachary, and Ava Cameron; four great-grandchildren, Brian, Harvey Arthur, Eleanor and Emilia; special nieces and nephews, Laurie (Mike) Klecha, Jim (Linda) Kipp, Steve (Linda) Jorgensen, Karen (Craig) Pequinot and Linda (Dennis) Rhodes; and honorary daughter Anne Laerum of Tynset, Norway.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Mary (Jim) Laughlin.
Cremation has taken place and services for David will be private. A celebration of life will be planned for summer 2026.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Maritime Heritage Association. Arrangements have been made with the guidance of the Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian.