Allen, Samuel Anthony's Obituary
We Celebrate The Life Of Samuel Anthony Allen
December 7, 1953 - October 15, 2024
Sammy, a resilient and compassionate brother, uncle, and devoted community member, ascended to heaven on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 70 years old.
Early Life
Born with cerebral palsy (CP), Sammy's determination and "can-do" attitude enabled him to overcome speech, hearing, and muscle control challenges.
Education
He attended El Portal Del Norte, El Portal Del Sol, San Francisco State University for lip reading and the School for the Deaf for extensive sign language training.
Independent Living and Employment
While at home, Sammy worked for Pacific Telephone and the airlines through the Easter Seals Organization. In the 1970s, he resided at Serra Residential Center (SRC), founded by the Benevolent church, and by a core group of parents. While there, he worked in their craft shop making, and painting beautiful ceramic lamps, lit Christmas trees, and other ceramic items. Later, SRC chose him to work at the Alameda Naval Base Commissary stocking the shelves at night. He was proud he learned how to ride the Bay Area Rapid Transit, aka: BART. He returned home and assisted Our Lady of Angels Church's groundskeeper and maintenance man.
Life's Challenges and Triumphs
In 2004, months before his 51st birthday, Sammy became wheelchair bound. This was a difficult adjustment for Sammy since he had been very mobile all his life. After living in a long-term facility for several years, he was placed in residential care homes where he was much happier. He also attended a day program for disabled people, where he discovered satisfaction and fulfillment. Sammy brought joy to others with his bright smile and willingness to help others.
Activities and Interests
Sammy's life revolved around family, and he was a beloved member. He cherished family activities. At home he enjoyed doing yard work, chopping wood for family, and neighbors, playing cards, dominos, and putting puzzles together. He liked tracking birthdays and eagerly looked forward to family visits during his time in SRC, and the group homes. He enjoyed running in the Special Olympics while at SRC. A devout Catholic, he valued attending mass and participating in church activities. Sammy was also an enthusiastic 49ers and Giants fan.
Legacy
Despite challenges, Sammy's kindness, generosity, and willingness to help inspired countless lives. His legacy will continue to touch hearts with family, friends, neighbors, and many others.
Survived By
His loving brothers and sister: Daniel E. Allen (Hsiao-Sheng Allen), Michael K. Allen (Patricia Allen); and R. Evelyn Allen-Klopfer (Steven Klopfer); nieces Rachel Andrews, Tiffany Crosetti, Kathryn Parker, and Brittany Allen; great-nieces and nephews Terra and Vincent Andrews, Guiliana Crosseti, Joseph Parker, and Brandon Crosetti.
In Lieu of Flowers
Please consider donating to UCP of the Golden Gate 1521 Webster Street Oakland, CA 94612
Include "In Honor of Sammy Allen" on your check. UCPGG is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit; donations are tax-deductible.
Rest in peace, Sammy. Your courage, love, and spirit will be deeply missed by us all.
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