David Fulton Allen ’52

Dave died March 24, 2004, in his Chicago home, of complications from emphysema. Our BOH cites Dave as our class's first standout — by virtue of his election to the permanent chairmanship of our freshman council — and a standout he remained throughout his rich life.

Born in Evanston, Ill., he entered Princeton from Lyons Township High School. He served with distinction on our freshman and senior councils, and was executive editor and editorial chairman of the Prince. While compiling a sterling SPIA record, he was recruited by the CIA and ultimately oversaw covert operations in Austria. After four years with the agency, however, he decided the spy business was not his calling, partly because he could not discuss his work with anyone. From government service he went on to Stanford Law School and a distinguished career as a partner with Shiff, Hardin, and Waite in Chicago, specializing in financial law.

Dave enjoyed fishing and camping with his family, and volunteered as a Sunday school teacher and member of the Barrington [Ill.] Board of Education. Muscular degeneration forced his retirement in 1991, but did not compromise his unfailing, bright, generous, indomitable spirit.

To his beloved wife, Gwen, his children, stepchildren, and eight grandchildren, the class extends heartfelt sympathy.

The Class of 1952