Allen Jay Royce of Montesano passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, August 11, 2024, at the age of 82. Allen was born on July 30, 1942, in Port Townsend, Washington, to Franklin and Pauline (Allinger) Royce. He was raised in the Carson and Stevenson area and graduated from The Legend High School in Stevenson, Washington, in 1961.

Allen worked as a shovel operator and log truck driver for Weyerhaeuser in Aberdeen from 1967 until his retirement in 2004. He was active in his community, coaching girls' fastpitch and boys' little league in Montesano. He also served as an elder and deacon at the Presbyterian Church and was a youth group leader. Later in life, he attended Calvary Chapel in Montesano.

One of the greatest blessings in Allen's life was the deep bond he shared with his daughter, Paula. In the past few years, their relationship grew even stronger, and the time they spent together became incredibly meaningful to both of them. Allen cherished every moment with her, and their connection brought him immense joy and comfort in his later years.

Allen was also a devoted grandfather who took immense pride in his grandchildren, Jacob Allen Dodd and Paige Suzie Whitlock. His enthusiasm for their achievements and interests was evident in the consistent support and encouragement he provided. Although distance sometimes kept them apart, Allen's love and pride in his grandchildren were always clear.

Allen was an avid hunter for 57 years, a passion he pursued with determination and respect for the outdoors. This love for hunting was deeply personal, yet it also became a testament to the strength of his marriage to Sharon. Although Sharon did not share the same enthusiasm for hunting, she once accompanied him on a trip, embodying the deep love and commitment they had for one another. Sharon's support wasn't driven by her own love for the activity, but by her profound love for Allen. Throughout their long and cherished marriage, they continually showed one another that true love was about sharing in each other's passions, even when they weren't shared interests. Their marriage was built on respect, admiration, and unwavering devotion, and Allen often reflected on the blessing that Sharon was in his life, both as a wife and as his most loyal supporter.

Allen's hunting legacy was also marked by his close friendships with fellow hunters, including his brother-in-law Brad Cornwall, as well as Alan Purkey and Peter Gillespie. Together, they shared many memorable hunting trips. Out of the many seasons, Allen only had two hunting tags that did not get filled, reflecting his dedication and skill in the sport.

In addition to his passion for hunting, Allen was a devoted traveler who explored the world with a special fondness for Africa. He also enjoyed trips to Hawaii, Mexico, and Jamaica and had the distinction of visiting all 50 states in the U.S.

Allen was also a cancer survivor, a victory that deepened his appreciation for life. In his commitment to helping others in the fight against cancer, he participated in the American Cancer Society Relay for Life for many years, offering his support and encouragement to fellow survivors and those still battling the disease.

Allen is survived by his loving daughter, Paula Jo Royce, and his two grandchildren, Jacob Allen Dodd and Paige Suzie Whitlock. He also leaves behind his nieces Traci Bowldy, Stacy Conboy, and Christa Cornwall; nephews Scott Midland, Jeff Cornwall Morris, Mitchell Royce, Tony Royce, Michael, Jeremy, Bruce, and Kevin Voss; and brother-in-law Brad Cornwall and sister-in-law Christine Voss. Allen was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon Wilma Royce; his son, Randy Mikko Royce; his brothers-in-law Jeff Cornwall and Sheldon Cornwall; his brother, Frank Royce; and his sister, Teddi Midland.

A memorial service in honor of Allen's life will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 26th, at Calvary Chapel, located at 114 Marcy Ave. W. in Montesano.

Allen's daughter, Paula, is kindly accepting donations to help cover the costs of the services.

To share memories or sign the online book of memories, please visit www.harrisonfamilymortuary.com.