Colleen K Allen

Born on November 13, 1948, in Colorado, Colleen lived a life filled with curiosity, adventure, and joy. Her love of history sparked a lifelong passion for travel and eventually led her to study English and History at the University of Nebraska. She took the scenic route earning her degree, never hesitating to pause her studies when adventure called. She lived in Greece for a time, backpacked through Europe twice, and what began as a trip to San Francisco in her twenties became several unforgettable years living there during the vibrant 1970s. Wherever life took her, Colleen built lifelong friendships, remaining close with people from nearly every chapter of her life. Those adventures became the colorful stories that family and friends came to know so well.

Colleen was immensely proud of her Irish heritage. With her striking red hair, love of the color green, and Irish blessings decorating her home, she carried that pride throughout her life. Her travels through Ireland were among her most meaningful experiences, bringing together her love of history, travel, and connection to her ancestry. She eventually laid down roots in Nebraska as she built her family, but part of her heart always remained in her home state of Colorado among the Rocky Mountains. She found just as much joy standing beside the ocean, taking in a mountain view, and simply appreciating the beauty of the world around her.

Colleen's compassion touched everyone around her. A proud two-time cancer survivor, she was passionate about giving back by participating in and helping organize Relay For Life events, supporting a cause that meant so much to her. She had a lifelong love for animals and never hesitated to open her heart and home to cats and dogs in need. She especially adored her beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Jaksin, and the many Samoyeds that shared her life over the years.

Above all, Colleen treasured being a mother and grandmother. Her happiest moments were spent making memories with her children and grandchildren, especially during their younger years. She had a playful spirit, loved to dance, gather with family and friends, and never passed up an opportunity to celebrate life with music, laughter, and the people she loved.

Colleen is lovingly survived by her daughter, Shannon, her grandsons, Hudson (7) and Tristan (7); her son, Brandon and his wife, Tera, and their children, Teagen (8) and Sebastian (5); her devoted partner, Edmund; and many dear friends whose lives she touched over the years.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Marjorie.

A funeral service celebrating Colleen's life will be held at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home in Lincoln, Nebraska, on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.