Desmond John Allen, born Nov. 17, 1965 in Dublin, Ireland, died July 26, 2012 in San Francisco, California after a long battle with Leukemia. Des, a resident of Lafayette, is survived by his loving wife Kate, and their children, Patrick, Kieran, and Mairead. He died in the arms of his wife and children, knowing how much he was loved and appreciated. He is also survived by his devoted in-laws: Jerry Tunis and Elizabeth McCue; Chris and Amy Brown; Matthew Tunis & Suzanne Lester, and their children, Cassius and Josephine; Suzy & William Coppin, and their children, Bryan, Matty and Kevin.
In Ireland, he is predeceased by his parents, Edward and Violet Allen. He is also survived by loving relatives Freda, Chris, and Alec Thackaberry, Deborah Martin, and many nieces and nephews. Des’ adoring brother, Alec, traveled to San Francisco to donate bone marrow, giving Des the gift of life for seven wonderful years, allowing him to bond with his family, especially his young daughter who otherwise would have no memory of him. Des is also survived by his lifelong friend, Dr. Peter Killeen of Dublin, Ireland, and his close friend, Gerry Mannion of Co. Roscommon, whose friendship, support and lively humor were invaluable until the very end.
His death at age 46 was untimely, and we will miss his extraordinary character, kindness, pure heart, gracious manners, keen sense of humor, and his magnificent sense of fair play. Des always held to his high ethical standards, and treated all with integrity and respect. He was a devoted father and husband, and challenged all to strive for good character and the highest moral standards.
Memorial service at St. Anselm's Church, Lafayette, California on Saturday August 11th at 11am; reception to follow in the Parish Hall. Burial of cremains will be at Holy Cross Cemetery, Colma, and Mt. Jerome Cemetery, Dublin, Ireland.
