David Eugene Allen

David Eugene Allen was born on June 16, 1941, in Los Angeles County and passed away on December 26, 2025. He lived the last 53 years in Lakeside, San Diego County, where he built not just a life, but a legacy of love, art, and integrity.

David was everything to me. He was my life, my great love, my partner, my best friend, and my safe place. After journeys that led us both through many chapters, we finally found true happiness in each other. For 40 beautiful years of marriage, we shared a love that was deep, joyful, adventurous, and real. We truly lived—laughing often, traveling extensively, learning endlessly, and savoring the gift of finding “your person” and knowing you are finally home.

David was a remarkable artist, teacher, and human being. A graduate of San Diego State University, he worked in wood, leather, sculpture, and many other mediums. At one time, he was recognized as one of the top ten leather craftsmen in the United States. His talent was extraordinary, but his heart was even greater. One of his most meaningful contributions was creating three-dimensional sculptures for the blind—art meant to be touched and experienced, created with compassion and inclusivity at its core. He believed art was for everyone.

He was intelligent, outspoken, and deeply principled, with a strong belief in social justice and a lifelong commitment to speaking up for what was right. David was kind, sweet, honest, and generous with his time and wisdom. He had a sharp mind, a great sense of humor, and a presence that made people feel seen and valued. Friends were everything to him, and his friendships were loyal, lasting, and full of laughter. He was truly well loved.

David was a devoted and loving father who cared deeply for his children. He was proud of the people they became and loved them fiercely in his own thoughtful, steady way—always supportive, always present, always teaching by example.

David leaves behind his devoted spouse, Brenda Joy Allen, who will carry his love forever; his children, Megan A. Sinclair and Bernadette Rodriguez; and his beloved grandchildren, Jack Presnell, Jacqueline Presnell, and Ian Rodriguez, all who brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his brother Ron Telford, sister-in-law Linda Telford, a niece, a nephew, extended family, and four and a half treasured great-grandchildren.

David was love in human form. He lived with purpose, created beauty, fought for fairness, and loved deeply. Our happiness was real, hard-earned, and profound. Though my heart is broken, I am endlessly grateful that we found each other in this life. He will be missed beyond words and loved beyond time.

Our love was the greatest work of art you ever created—and I will hold it forever.