Allan Earl Bear was born on June 3rd, 1935, in Clarno, WI, the oldest of Roy and Frances Bear’s two sons. He passed away November 8th, 2021, age 86, surrounded by family.
Growing up an inquisitive boy in Orangeville, IL, Allan loved sharing stories of adventures with his neighborhood friends, the time spent at his grandparent’s farm, a memorable family trip to California, and earned the nickname “Cub” from his school’s basketball team.
After graduating high school in Orangeville, Allan joined the United States Army, serving from 1953 to 1955. He travelled to Holland, Germany and Austria during his tour with the Field Artillery Unit, leaving service as a Corporal in the 2nd Armored Division.
Allan picked up quite the talent and skill of photography while serving overseas, and often shared the special places he visited through his b/w slides and photographs. Upon returning home, he chose employment with Albert Cummins as an apprentice carpenter. He truly learned the trade creed of measure twice, cut once well, as his attention to detail required him to measure five times, then cut once. His completed projects were always a tight construction.
When Allan met Joan Epping in 1962 at a relative’s wedding, and then again at his brother’s farm, they both knew their connection was something special after sitting up all night talking. They married December 21st, 1963 at St. John’s United Church of Christ in Freeport, IL. They raised their children at various properties in Juda, Warren and Lena, until finally settling in Orangeville.
Among Allan’s many interests, he raised foxhounds. As well as taking the dogs out for exercise, he earned a few trophies and ribbons at various competitions. He even raised two orphaned fox kits. He always found contentment in working with his hands, puzzling out how things work. In addition to carpentry, he enjoyed electronics and ham radio, built his own home computer, and was continually trying new things and new projects. When he could, Allan would grab his fishing pole and tackle box, and visit some of his favorite spots. Later in life he wanted to capture his family roots, so he extensively researched the Bear family tree.
A quiet and contemplative soul, Allan relished immersing himself in his pastimes. A lover of music, he created his own personal soundtrack, which was played up until his final days. An avid reader of social science and biographies, he was always interested in what made the world tick. An excellent and engaging storyteller, he could captivate a room with his tales.
Allan was preceded in death by his parents, brother Marv, and daughter Cheri.
He is survived by his loving family: wife Joan of Orangeville, his children Rick (Rose) of Freeport, Michael of Orangeville, and Michelle of Edmonds, WA, grandchildren Ryan (Kristi) of Summerville, SC, and Nicole (Eric Aspenson) of Belvidere, and great grandchildren Laken and Harper Bear and Tyler and Avery Aspenson. He is also survived by many Bear, Rufi and Epping relatives.
Allan was buried at Chapel Hill Cemetery in Freeport, IL. The Bear family wishes to thank all of the doctors, nurses, caregivers, and staff at Monroe Clinic Hospice for their tireless help, patience, kindness and comfort during Allan’s journey. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Monroe Clinic Hospice in memory of Allan Earl Bear.
