Dr. Allen Joseph Clare

Dr. Allen Joseph Clare, a man who dedicated his life to serving others, has passed away on February 5, 2024, at the age of 80 in Coalinga, California. Born on January 18, 1944, in Glendale, California, Dr. Clare leaves behind a legacy of compassion, love, and dedication. Dr. Clare is preceded in death by his parents Gerald and Irene Clare, brother Richard Clare, his loving wife of 50 years Ellen Clare, and his son Patrick Clare. He is survived by his daughters Jennifer (Keith) Chisholm, Christine (Paul) Zengel, and Katie (Allan) Lumsden. Dr. Clare is also survived by his five grandchildren Kelsie, Morgan, Jacob, Connor, and Paige, as well as many other relatives and friends.

From an early age, it was evident that Dr. Clare possessed a profound sense of service. After graduating from Loyola University with his Doctorate in Dentistry, he selflessly chose to serve his country by joining the Navy. Stationed in San Diego, California, he not only practiced dentistry but also lent his skills to support the health of military personnel. Doc's professional accomplishments were numerous and admirable. A dentist in Coalinga, California for over 50 years, throughout his extensive career as a dentist, he touched the lives of countless patients with his expertise and care. His commitment to excellence earned him the respect and admiration of both colleagues and patients alike.

Beyond his dental practice, Dr. Clare actively engaged in various roles within his community that reflected his deep-rooted desire to make a positive difference. He was an esteemed member of the Rotary Club and Elks Lodge association. The close-knit bond among its members allowed him to forge lasting friendships and engage in activities that served the community he held dearly. As a devoted parishioner of St. Paul Catholic Church, he contributed his time and efforts towards nurturing spiritual growth within the community.

Education held great importance to Dr. Clare throughout his life; thus it’s no surprise that he dedicated himself to improving education standards as part of the Coalinga School Board for the Coalinga-Huron School District. He believed that every child deserved access to quality education and worked diligently to ensure that this vision became a reality.

Outside of his professional and community endeavors, Dr. Clare cultivated a rich personal life that brought him immense happiness. In 1971, he married the love of his life, Ellen, and together they built a beautiful partnership based on love, respect, and support. Their unwavering devotion to one another served as an inspiration to all who knew them. Together Ellen and Dr. Clare went on to create a beautiful family with their four children whom they loved dearly.

Doc's love for sports was evident to anyone who spent time with him. He particularly enjoyed watching the Chicago Bears football and passionately cheered on the Chicago Cubs. Fishing on the river and hunting quail provided him with moments of tranquility amidst nature's beauty. Additionally, golfing was a pastime that brought Dr. Clare both joy and relaxation.

Dr. Allen Joseph Clare will forever be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He will also be remembered as a dedicated dentist, and an active member of his community. His respectable demeanor, caring nature, and well-structured approach to life touched countless lives in immeasurable ways. His legacy serves as a reminder of the impact one individual can make when fueled by compassion and service. As we say our final goodbyes to Dr. Clare, let us cherish the memories we shared with him and honor his memory by continuing his legacy of kindness and selflessness. May his soul rest in eternal peace knowing that he made a difference in this world through his unwavering dedication to others.

A funeral mass will occur at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Friday, February 23, 2024 at 10:00 am with a graveside burial at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Fresno directly following.

Serving as pallbearers are Keith Chisholm, Jacob Chisholm, Paul Zengel and Sean Lumsden.

Donations in memory of Dr. Allen can be made to https://www.foldedflagfoundation.org/