Allan Dow

Allan Dow, age 90, passed away peacefully at home in Santa Cruz, California on Friday, February 3, 2023, in the loving care of his wife and family.

Jean-Philippe Defaut
Allan Dow in the '50s

Allan was born on February 7th, 1932 in Washington, to Fred & Carolyn Dow (Smith). He was the oldest of two boys. Allan attended grade school and high school in Auburn, California where he spent most of his childhood and adolescence. In 1961, Allan joined the Navy Reserves and he served a total of 12 years. At the same time of his service in the Navy Reserves, he began his career in banking which eventually led him into the real estate industry. Allan's real estate career span 65 years during which time he was involved with many property achievements and redevelopments in the Sacramento Area.

On December 2, 1989, Allan married his beloved wife of 33 years, Margaret Dow. The two lived in Santa Cruz, California where they were involved in and contributed significantly to their community. Allan and Margaret enjoyed years of travel together including their annual Hawaii trips.

Charitable was a word synonymous with Allan. He was involved in many charities, primarily charities that directly benefited children. He was a founding member of the board of directors for Camp Opportunity, a summer camp for children at risk, a lifelong Rotarian in Santa Cruz, and he donated to and volunteered for the Boys & Girls Club and the Salvation Army. Allan enjoyed motorcycling throughout his life. He also enjoyed travel. His travels took him all over the world and he often combined his love of travel with his lifelong love of motorcycling. At just 17 years old he toured England by motorcycle, and at the age of 80 he toured Italy by motorcycle.

Allan accomplished much in his lifetime and was always modest and humble about his achievements. He valued education and was a mentor to many who had the privilege of knowing him. Most of all Allan will be fondly remembered by all for being a man of generosity and integrity.

Allan is preceded in death by his father Fred Dow and his mother Carolyn Dow, and his beloved nephew and grandson.

Allan is survived by his loving wife Margaret Dow, his sons Rick Dow and Caleb Preston Dow, his grandson David Dow, his brother David Dow, his niece Mary Dow and many cherished great grandchildren.

A visitation for Allan will be held Tuesday, February 14, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Mount Vernon Memorial Park, 8201 Greenback Ln, Fair Oaks, CA 95628. A funeral service will occur Wednesday, February 15, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Mount Vernon Memorial Park.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MountVernonMemorial.com for the Dow family.

In lieu of flowers charitable contributions can be made to the Santa Cruz Rotary Foundation

PO Box 497 Santa Cruz, CA 95061

Allan Dow riding his Venom in June 2016 CA. Photo John McCoy
Jean-Philippe Defaut