Allen B. Masterson passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on July 1, 2017, surrounded by his loving family.

Allen was born in Arcata California on May 7, 1924. He grew up in the Crannell, Samoa and Arcata areas and was raised by his great-aunt and great-uncle, Eunice and Jack Daugherty. Allen played several sports and was especially fond of baseball, basketball and golf. He attended Arcata High School and graduated in 1942.

Allen joined the Army in February of 1943 and served in the 82nd Airborne. Allen served during WWII in North Africa, Sicily, Italy (Anzio), France, Belgium (Battle of the Bulge) and Germany (Arnhem).

After returning home from the war Allen worked managing a local grocery store and worked at several local mills, later retiring from Louisiana Pacific. He coached American Legion, Babe Ruth and Little League baseball in Arcata for several years. Allen was the last surviving member of the 1949 Arcata Fire Department crew, former President of the local Eagles chapter, and a life member of the VFW.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Arletta Masterson; parents Gaylord A. Masterson and Alice Murray; brothers Francis, Gale and Joseph; and an infant son, Gary. Two daughters-in-law, Diana (Kelly) and Vicki (Mike), also preceded him.

Allen is survived by his children Michael (Eugenia), John Patrick (Suzie), Maureen, Tim (Allison) and Kelly. He is also survived by his grandchildren Ryan (Christina), Amanda (Jacob), Jennifer (Nancy), Lisa (Brian), Johnathan (Ernie), Jacob, Alyssa, Allison and Ryan. Allen was blessed by his great-grandchildren Wyatt, Julianna, Emmett, Elijah and Jase.

His life was full of devoted friends, particularly his ROMEO (retired old men eating out) group and afternoon coffee group, which normally met at V&N Burger Bar. Allen was an avid Humboldt Crabs and San Francisco Giants baseball fan.

Funeral arrangements are by Paul’s Chapel. A private interment will be at Ocean View Cemetery in Eureka. A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, July 13, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Arcata Fire Department. Friends and family are welcome.

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The obituary above was submitted by Allen Masterson’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.