Clark Elijah Allen

Long time Arizona Businessman and Entrepreneur Clark Elijah Allen passed away on November 19th, 2024, in Gilbert, AZ, surrounded by his loving family. He was 82 years old.

Clark was born in Phoenix, AZ to Frihoff and Cora Allen. He was a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, son, uncle, and friend to all. Known for being charitable and helpful, he was a man with a tender heart. His first concern was usually for others. He would give to those he saw in need. He was not always religious; however, Clark had a strong personal relationship with God and his Savior his whole life and shared his touching testimony through life experiences with his family and those he loved. Prayer was an important part of his household.

Clark had a zest for life and adventure, with a reputation for being a bit of a daredevil. He loved motorcycles, cars, planes, boats, and anything with an engine. No matter how fast it went, he wanted it to go faster. He was a pilot, sailor, carpenter, mechanic, inventor, poet, and musician.

As a young adult he served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Northern California Mission. He married Nancy Gibson in 1964, and they had eight children. After his first marriage he moved to San Diego where he and Jennifer Vedder had two sons. One of Clark’s greatest joys was watching the growth of his posterity. He kept a stash of treats ready to share with anyone who came to visit, especially his grandchildren.

Clark started many companies and private ventures. After several years in California, he returned to Arizona to work at the family business, American Savings Life Insurance Company, and be closer to family. He opened and ran the real estate division of the company and enjoyed serving on the board of directors for many years.

Clark had a stroke in 2019 which led to his eventual decline. He is survived by 7 siblings, 10 children, 40 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Clark’s funeral service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2228 E Brown Rd, Mesa, AZ 85213 on Thursday, December 5. Viewing will be at 9:00 am followed by the funeral service at 10:00 am. Clark will be interred at City of Mesa Cemetery in Mesa, AZ.