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BORN
1945
DIED
2014
Alan Splithoff Obituary
Sept. 5, 1945 ~ May 2, 2014
Resident of Alamo
On May 2, 2014 a kind-hearted, generous man departed his earthly life to rest in peace eternally. Alan A. Splithoff leaves behind his loving wife, Diane Collins-Splithoff and cherished daughter, Michelle Splithoff (Andy) Corso. Alan was predeceased by his father, Dr. Clarence Splithoff, mother, Gladys Splithoff and his beloved daughter, Llisa Splithoff-Wren. Alan will be dearly missed by his sisters, Jacqueline Smith, Sherril Haynes and her husband, Dr. Richard Haynes, niece and nephew, Kathleen Puglia and Stephen Haynes. His many "four-legged" friends and exotic birds he rescued and cared for with great compassion will especially miss Alan.
Alan was born in Oakland, CA, living most of his younger years in Piedmont, then Tracy and eventually settling in Alamo, CA. His life-long love of all things "mechanical" began with his aviation career, working for SFO Helicopter and Trans-International Airlines. His true-calling began with 34 years as a valued member of the Oakland Fire Department. He was not only a firefighter, but a Chief Marine Engineer. Al remained as an independent contractor with the OFD for another eight years after his retirement.
One of his greatest sources of pride came from being responsible for and maintaining the Oakland fireboats, the Hoga and Seawolf. Alan had a passion for working with machinery, fondly referred to as a "motor-head" by many of his close friends and colleagues. He could patiently and expertly repair or rebuild anything "broken" upon request. He enjoyed collecting antiques and was a devoted Oakland Raiders, season-ticket holder. One memorable event was attending his first and only Super Bowl with Diane (a former Raiderette) who was his best friend and partner for 28 years. Even though the Raiders did not win the game, Al and Diane came home with unforgettable memories and no regrets.
Alan was laid-to-rest in a peaceful and private service. Although he is no longer physically present, his wit, loyalty, and unselfish support for all who knew him will never be forgotten.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Alan Splithoff
Sponsored by East Bay Times.
3 Entries
Peter Madsen
December 1, 2015
I went to High School with Al and we were in the Rigma's together, so there were many parties we shared besides high school. After High School we lost touch until our house on Gilbert Street caught fire from the chimney. When the fire department arrived I opened the front door and there holding a hose was a fireman. " Hey Pete how you doing and I said" who are you? It's Al". He then lifted his face mask and said "Al, Al Splithoff, how you doing Pete". I said great, lets put the fire out. So we ran upstairs with the hose and opened the attic access hatch in the closet and I climbed into the attic. Al handed me the hose and coached me on spraying the flames. "Not to much water Pete, little spurts, water damage you know". Anyway a funny reunion and we picked up right where we left off. I had no idea Al was in the Oakland Fire Department and just remember that at home he was meticulous about everything, his cloths, car, room, huge dog, Dobi I think and his Dad's Model A. My wife new Al also, from High School and I just thought of him today and did a Google. We are so sorry he is gone as I thought he had many good years of retirement ahead of him. He sure was there when we needed him, always a friend first. That was an important memory for us and it carries who Al was. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
Peter and Mary
Bonnie Kirschman
September 17, 2014
What a beautiful tribute Diane. I think of you often.
Joyce McGovern
September 14, 2014
I will miss his wonderful caring smile!!
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