Alan Mardis Furber Jr.

1944 - 2025

Alan Mardis Furber Jr.
August 22, 1944 - October 6, 2025
Alan was born in San Rafael, California to Helen and Alan Furber Sr. He attended Cloverdale High School where he played trombone in the marching band and was the Senior class president-continuing to plan reunions for 50 years. He earned an AA in Industrial Arts from Santa Rosa Junior College and a BA from San Francisco State University earning a degree in Industrial Arts and a teaching credential.
Alan's first career brought him joy and countless stories. For 15 years, he taught Woodshop at Brook Haven School in Sebastopol. He took great pride in his students, many of whom went on to become talented entrepreneurs and craftsmen.
In 1986, he left teaching to join his parents and brother Craig, to develop homes and a shopping center on family land in Cloverdale, which had been in the family since 1879. Being an instrumental part of Cloverdale's growth was one of his proudest accomplishments.
Alan loved the outdoors. He could be seen multiple times a week hiking up Hot Springs Rd, through town, or in the hills above town. If you ever hiked with him, you likely heard stories of the history of Cloverdale, learned about the native trees, or got a treat for your dog. He didn't sit still; he loved fishing, hunting, camping, abalone diving, gardening, water skiing, and Hawai'i. Alan loved visiting and exploring "the islands", and his signature look was always a Hawaiian shirt.
He was passionate about keeping the history of Cloverdale alive and served on the board of the History Center. Alan was a dedicated supporter of Friday Night Live and could be seen swing dancing throughout the summer. If there was no room on the dance floor, he'd dance in the parking lot. Alan loved the community of Cloverdale, supporting local businesses, celebrating their successes, and offering suggestions to anyone who asked.
Though he was a credentialed teacher for 15 years, Alan's favorite students were always his family, he loved helping others learn. A devoted Dad and Papa, he supported his daughters and grandchildren in every way, traveling to see performances and competitions, and happily manning the grill at every celebration. His greatest joy came from teaching, encouraging, and being present for those he loved most.
He is survived by his beloved daughters, Amy Furber (Jim Dobson) and Andrea Card (Casey Card), his grandchildren, Zac, Avy, and Hazel, his best friend Jonathan Marmelzat, and many dear friends and family. He is now at peace with his parents, Al and Helen Furber and brother, Craig Furber.
In lieu of flowers, support local Cloverdale businesses, or please donate to the Cloverdale History Center, 215 N Cloverdale Blvd Cloverdale, CA 95425, or Shriners Children's Northern California, Office of Philanthropy, 2425 Stockton Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95817
A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held on December 13, 2025 at 11:00am at The Citrus Fair Auditorium in Cloverdale.