COTTAGE GROVE, Wis. - Douglas Charles Allen, age 72, of Cottage Grove, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by love and the farm he held so dear, on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. He was born on October 21, 1953, in Portales, New Mexico, the son of Melvin and Rosemary Lampe Allen.

Doug lived a life built on hard work, humility, loyalty, and love for the people around him. He dedicated 31 years to the Dane County Highway Department, where he was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to do whatever needed to be done. He also spent many years helping his good friend, Larry Skaar, on the farm, a place where Doug felt at home and where his steady hands and generous spirit were always put to good use.

More than anything, Doug loved his family. He was the kind of father, grandfather, brother, friend, and neighbor who showed up. He was at every game he could possibly attend, cheering on his daughters and granddaughters with quiet pride. Over the years, he became known throughout Marshall as “Grandpa Doug,” not only to his own family, but to so many others who felt his encouragement from the stands.

Doug had a quiet way of leaving a big mark. He never needed attention, never asked for much, and gave more than most ever knew. He loved tractor pulls, drag races, time around the farm, fishing when he could, and breakfast at local restaurants, where he could strike up a conversation and brighten someone’s morning without even trying.

He will be remembered for his rough hands, humble heart, quick wit, and deep kindness. Doug was steady, strong, and selfless. The kind of man who made people feel safe, welcome, and taken care of. There will never be another quite like him.

Douglas is survived by his daughters, Malinda (Brett) Weisensel and Stephanie (Charlie) Halberg; six granddaughters, Halle Weisensel, Kennedy Weisensel, Brooke Halberg, Payton Halberg, Ryan Halberg, and Scottlyn “Scottie” Halberg; brother, David (Cindy) Allen; sister, Nicki (Nolan) Andersen; former wife and friend, Pamela Allen; bonus daughter, Jenna (Nick) Luchsinger; and two bonus granddaughters, Vivian Luchsinger and Evelyn Luchsinger.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Rosemary Allen; brothers, Dean (Ruth) Allen and Dan (Kathy) Allen; sister, Vicki Allen; and beloved son, Scott (Scotty) Douglas Allen. We take comfort in knowing Doug is reunited with the loved ones who went before him, and we can only imagine the joy, laughter, stories, and maybe even a few tractor conversations happening in heaven.

Doug and his family would like to acknowledge Debbie for the many years she was a part of his life.

The family would also like to thank family, neighbors, and SSM Home Hospice, especially Gene, for helping Doug over the last few years.

A funeral service will be held at Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Care, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 12 noon on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Tuesday.

A celebration of Doug’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Nora’s II Tavern in Cottage Grove. Please join us to celebrate Doug and share a few stories.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Douglas C Allen

October 21, 1953 - May 12, 2026

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