Nelson Allen

Nelson Allen, 97, of Livingston, Montana, passed away on April 14, 2026, at Scripps Memorial Hospital in LaJolla, California.

He was born in Bronxville, New York, on July 26, 1928, to Francis and Inez Allen and grew up in the area around Scarsdale, New York. He graduated from Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, in 1951 with a BA in English Literature.

He enlisted in the USAF Aviation Cadet Program and received his wings and commission as a Second Lieutenant in 1952 in Texas. He was deployed almost immediately to Kimpo AB, Korea, as an F-86 pilot during the Korean War and began his career as a fighter pilot. Nelson served over 20 years in the USAF and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1971. Nelson received numerous awards including the Distinguished Flying Cross in May 1953 and the Air Medal x 3. He had an exciting career as a fighter pilot serving in Korea as well as two tours in Vietnam/Thailand. He also was a test pilot on the F-104. He later was an Aircraft Project Manager on the B-1 bomber at Rockwell International.

Moving to Livingston in 2001, Nelson loved Montana. He belonged to Junta, Daedalians, Sons of the American Revolution, and the Republican Party.

He is survived by his wife Peggy, son Bradley, daughter Karen, granddaughter Melissa, 3 great grandchildren, and nephews Mark and Paul.

He was predeceased by his son Randall, sister Priscilla, and brother Gerauld.

Full military services were held at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California on May 1, 2026.