Colin Matthew Allen, 39

Colin Matthew Allen, 39, joined Jesus in Heaven on Friday, Aug. 28, 2015, after fighting a long battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife, Amy, and their four children, of Hayden, Idaho. He is predeceased by their first son on March 19, 1997.

Colin was born on Feb. 21, 1976, and was raised in Janesville, Calif., by his parents, Rich and Sheree Allen. He spent his free time from a young age tinkering with cars; as a teen he re-built a junkyard car and restored it to working condition. This natural mechanical ability manifested itself later in a career as an auto technician, after he graduated from the Sequoia Institute in Fremont, Calif., with a Master Automotive Technician/Advanced Level Specialist Certification. Colin was also a talented woodworker, he fashioned many pieces of art such as jewelry boxes and beautifully carved gunstocks for his family and friends.

Colin and Amy were high school sweethearts and married in Susanville, Calif., on Nov. 18, 1995. They lived in Eureka, Calif., for 12 years where they had five children. They relocated to Hayden in the summer of 2007, where he took a job at Auto Center Northwest; whom became a "second family." Colin provided so well for his family that Amy was privileged to stay at home with the children to raise them. His witty humor and quick responses kept the family laughing, a trait he has taught his children. His hard working example was also passed on to his children: they are always working around the house, either on the yard, their own car restoration, and other projects. Colin would often help family and friends with their auto needs; he will be remembered by many for the generosity of his time and talents, and for refusing to accept payment for his efforts.

The family would like to thank Hospice of North Idaho for the wonderful care they gave Colin the last year and a half. They were a blessing in many ways. Much love to Lori and Katie for all the loving care they gave to the whole family!

A memorial will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, 2015, at Heart of the City Church, 521 Emma Ave., Coeur d'Alene. Reception to follow for family and friends.

We were blessed to have English Funeral Chapel perform services.

Visit Colin's memorial and sign his online guest book at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.