Girdner, Allen James
Allen James Girdner of Santa
Fe, 67, passed away on December 24, 2016 after a nine year long battle with cancer. Allen was born April 28, 1949 in Tucson, Arizona to Alwin and Marjorie Girdner.
He dedicated his life to his family and his faith. Allen was fully devoted to loving God in every aspect of his life. He had a singular heart which disregarded distractions that might have called him away from his main mission: to supremely love God. Allen walked in integrity and truth. He demonstrated that through God’s grace, a loving life of service is possible. He was a man of action, diligent in every task he undertook. It didn’t matter whether it was serving his country in the Navy, or the people of the state of New Mexico at both the New Mexico Health Department and Public Regulation Commission. After retiring from the state, Allen embraced his true calling as Youth Minister at St. John’s United Methodist Church. Allen was generous with his time as well as with his praise and encouragement. He spent many summer hours driving in a hot van to lead his youth group in service projects across the country. As a lifelong learner and an avid history buff, Allen most recently lead as a lecturer of New Mexico history and expert tour guide with Road Scholar. Allen set a tremendous example as he faced cancer with faith, assurance, and bravery. He will always be remembered for his sense of humor, cracking jokes even on the last day of his life.
Allen is survived by his wife of 46 years, Claire; son, Aaron and wife, Maaite; son, Matthew and wife, Laura; six grandchildren: Ian, Anna, Grace, Abigail, Jonah, and Simon; brother Kennan, and sisters Sharon Magee and Mari Jo Girdner-Vigil; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
The family would like to thank the many loved ones who held us in prayer and the professionals who provided care over the years of his treatment. We are grateful for the gift of his life. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to the ACPMP Cancer Research Foundation: acpmp.org/ donate. Services will be held Saturday, January 7th at Blaze Christian Fellowship, 6 Bisbee Court in Santa Fe.