Charles David ALLEN

November 27, 1929 - October 15, 2025

Spokane - Charles (Charlie) David Allen (95) passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, after living six remarkable years beyond the six-month prognosis he received following his cancer diagnosis in 2019.

Born at St. Luke's Hospital in Spokane on November 27, 1929, to John and Volina Allen, Charlie was one of ten children alongside Earnest, Raymond, Mary, Dixie, Jacky, Jimmy, Kay, Ella, and Donnie.

With his first wife, Clemintine, he welcomed two children, Marilyn and Gary. Charlie shared 41 wonderful years with the love of his life, Helen (Thomas). When they married in 1973, he welcomed Helen's seven children - John, Ron (Mavis), Janet (Ron), Donna, Darlene (Rod), Bill (Pam), and Karen. Over the years, their family grew, blessing him with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even a few great-great-grandchildren who brought him endless pride and joy.

Charlie dedicated his career to the City of Spokane, where he worked for nearly his entire life - aside from a brief period of honorable service in the U.S. Navy. He began as a courier at just 15 years old (without a driver's license, as he liked to point out), earning a reputation for being the "fast courier" who went through tires a bit more often than expected. He shared daily coffee with his dear friend, Jim Potts, who recently passed.

A lifelong racing enthusiast, Charlie's passion for speed continued on the track at Alken Speedway in Deer Park during the '50s and '60s. He later joined Jack Morse's pit crew throughout the '70s, before rounding out his racing career by crewing for his son and grandson. During the off-season, he enjoyed snowmobiling adventures with family.

In his later years, Charlie could often be found walking the mall, a routine he kept up until just a few months before his passing.

Charlie lived a full long life and touched the lives of many people.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 23rd, from 2:00-4:00 p.m., at Stockwell's in Spokane Valley (3319 N. Argonne Rd., Millwood, WA 99212).