Leilani Eleanor Allen, PhD
After a long illness, Leilani – formerly of Fremont, CA and Mundelein, IL passed away on October 26th. Leilani’s accomplishments, influence and travels were extensive. As the daughter of Command Sergeant Major, John Kaleiapu Allen (deceased) and Germanborn Mother, Ilse Ritter Allen (of San Leandro), she and her sister, Nalani (Scott) Allen-Cantley (of Daly City) was destined to be a world traveler and thinker.
Leilani was born in Rudesheim am Rhein, Germany, and lived in several countries (where her Father was stationed) becoming fluent in German and French as well as English. Leilani received her BA, Summa cum laude and MA from SF State and a Doctorate, in Internal Relations, from the University of Connecticut. Her dissertation was on the issue of “Guest Workers” in East Germany. While there, in the 1970’s, she solidified her German friendships – which she had started in High School (Kubasaki in Okinawa) as Pen Pals. Leilani expanded her scope of knowledge into the field of Information Technology, and became very successful – holding senior positions at Sears and PNC, while also writing a column in Computerworld. Leilani was frequently a keynote and/or guest speaker at IT Conferences (in the US as well as in Australia) where she successfully imparted critical information management techniques while doing it with Business Humor. This led her to publish a book on this approach, along with over sixty articles on IT and Capacity Management.
Leilani always expanded her thinking and research. She has several pre-publication novels of historical-fiction, mysteries, and a research document – with extensive charts – on the Genealogy of the Royal Families of Europe. Leilani corresponded daily with friends and colleagues, of all political and cultural backgrounds – across the globe – on topics ranging from the most serious of the day to her “Friday Funnies”! She continually engaged in discussions and debates and challenged all to articulate their rationale of thought.
Leilani will be greatly missed by her family and extensive number of friends! She was a loyal friend and was known for remembering their special occasions throughout the year – and over many years! She held “grand” dinner parties with multiple courses, presented with an extensive array of dishes and wine glasses. Guests were expected to Dress-Up!
Leilani requested that all who passed her way - “stay engaged”, “be informed”, “take a stand” and “keep in touch” with one another.
A Celebration of Leilani’s life will be held in San Leandro, at the home of her dear friend, Carol Klufts, on Friday, November 27th – Leilani’s 66th birthday – from 1-6pm. She recommended that donations be made to your favorite Program that cares for animals. ALOHA!