Allen Wayne Ridge

Allen Wayne Ridge was born and raised on a Peach Farm in Merced to Harold and Margaret Ridge. He graduated Merced High School in 1952 and Graduated from Fresno State in 1956. In 1957 Allen joined the United States Air Force ranking as Second Lieutenant. Allen completed Navigator Training in Harlingen Texas, Air Defense Training in Waco, Texas, then was stationed in Pane Air Field just North of Seattle Washington where he flew protecting our Pacific Boarders. Allen was honorably discharged as First Lieutenant in 1960.

Allen, Tonie, and their two young boys Mark, and Bruce then moved back to Merced, Ca in 1960 where Allen put in 32 years working for Farmers Insurance. After he retired Allen began volunteering his time to help the community. Allen belonged to the Downtown Association, San Joaquin Air Board, Challenger Learning Center, Economic Development Advisory, Merced Zoo, MCOE Judge, Merced County Chamber of Commerce, Elks Lodge, and the Castle Air Museum. Allen was lovingly known as the unofficial Mayor of Merced. Allen and Tonie loved to travel the world, Cruises being their favorite.

Allen was preceded in death by his Father, Mother, and younger brother. Allen is survived by his wife Tonie, sons Mark (Nicole), Bruce (Patricia). Brother Russel (Marge). Three Granddaughters Jana, Nicole, and Stephanie (Freddy). Two Grandsons Matthew (Elena), and Steven (Julianna), and eight great grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 20th, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home with a reception to follow located at 1490 B Street Merced, California 95341. In Lieu of flowers the family is asking that you make a donation to a local organization or charity of your choice.

Arrangements under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, Merced, CA.