Allen Don Zumbrunnen

Allen Don Zumbrunnen passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on Friday, May 18, 2018 surrounded by his loving family, near the home where he grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was born in Salt Lake City on January 27, 1932 to Mary Esther Monson and Arnold W. Zumbrunnen.

Allen graduated from South High School and then attended the University of Utah where he graduated in 1955 with a degree in the field of Metallurgical Engineering. After graduation he joined the Navy where he achieved the rank of LCDR and obtained his commercial pilot instrument certification. He spent time on the USS Boxer in Japan, Guam and Hong Kong from 1955-1959. He also spent time in Pensacola, Fl. with the Blue Angels in 1957 and with the Blue Angels in Corpus Christi in 1959.

After his time in the Navy he started his career with Boart Longyear where he designed diamond bits for the mining industry. After his retirement, Allen pursued his passion for scientific research projects in the field of Metallurgy. His work included the development of diffusion bonding methods as a replacement for welding and welding and brazing for refectory metals and alloys. He authored more than one patent in his field. He also continued to work on diamond bits for drilling.

Allen had a great sense of humor and was such a good listener. He also was a great mentor and teacher to many people. He is survived by his brothers Lynn, Robert (Pam, deceased) and Dean (Valeen) and many nieces and nephews who loved him. He is proceeded in death by his parents and two brothers Dale and Calvin Zumbrunnen.

Graveside Services will held at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park, 3401 South Highland Drive, SLC on Thursday, May 24, 2018 at 10:00 am. Online condolences may be shared at www.wasatchlawn.com