ALLEN OUTLAND 

April 24, 1951 – April 11, 2026

Allen Outland, age 74, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2026. He was born on Tuesday, April 24, 1951.

Allen was an incredible man who was blessed with many friends. He had a generous heart—he would often give the shirt off his back to help others, even giving his last few dollars to those he believed needed it more. He was deeply empathetic and always cared for those around him.

In his early twenties, Allen worked on a tugboat on the Mississippi River that transported a nuclear generator. He later hitchhiked across the country, eventually settling in California, where he worked as a mover and recovered from a serious back injury. During that time, he formed lifelong friendships. He later traveled with his mother to England to visit family, and afterward spent time in the Caribbean, working as a cook at the Reef Shack—where he enjoyed swimming as much as possible.

In 1980, Allen left the Caribbean and traveled to New Jersey, where he met Cheryl Reedy. Together, they hitchhiked across the country, creating what she described as the adventure of a lifetime. They eventually made their way to Eugene, Oregon, where Allen became known for his infectious personality and ability to bring people together.

Allen was a longtime volunteer at the Oregon Country Fair beginning in the early 1980s, later becoming an Elder in 2017. He was known for riding his bicycle, often pulling a cart loaded with supplies, staying for extended periods before biking home.

In the early 1990s, Allen worked as an aquatic instructor and lifeguard at Sheldon Pool in Eugene. In 1996, he and three others saved a young man from drowning. For this heroic act, he received a Certificate of Recognition for Extraordinary Personal Action and was honored by the City of Eugene.

Allen later attended the University of Oregon and graduated in 2012. He worked for several years as a custodian at the university before retiring at the age of 65.

He also studied Red Tiger Kung Fu, where he found purpose, discipline, and community. Though his health eventually limited his participation, he was honored with an honorary Black Belt certification (1st Degree) by Grandmaster “Siju” Ron Phillips—an achievement that meant a great deal to him.

Allen is survived by his partner and soulmate, Cheryl Reedy; his sister, Janet Outland of Nevada; and Alex Outland of New Jersey.

Allen loved his friends, playing music, singing, riding his bicycle, and swimming. He was a kind, generous, and adventurous man who will be deeply missed.