OGDEN -- Speaking at a 1961 luncheon about the problems affecting Ogden, newly elected Mayor Merle Allen told city leaders that respectful communication between city government and the electorate was a good way to start.
Allen, who served as mayor from 1961 to 1965, died from natural causes at his Ogden home Wednesday. He was 91.
The former mayor and city councilman not only sought to influence those with whom he served but also those who would come after him, including current Mayor Matthew R. Godfrey, who released a statement after Allen's passing. Allen is related to Godfrey by marriage.
"We are mourning the loss of one of Ogden's great men. Mayor Allen was a passionate contributor to Ogden, not only as a mayor and councilman, but also as a civil servant at Weber State and the U.S. Navy. We will remember his remarkable achievements for many years to come," the statement reads.
Godfrey also said Allen helped him in his current role.
"On a personal level, I will miss his advice and counsel," he wrote. "He was a source of inspiration and strength during the many hard times of my tenure in office."
Allen built an extensive resume in public service and education.
Toward the end of his second term in 1965, Allen sought to address the problems of urban renewal and growing traffic problems. He was also instrumental in annexing the Shadow Valley area and began the process of expanding Harrison Boulevard.
After serving as mayor and councilman, Allen later spent about 15 years in Denver, where he served as associate director for the Colorado Commission on Higher Education. Allen maintained close ties to Ogden and became chairman of the Weber County Democratic Party in 1985 when he and his family moved back.
Allen served in World War II and Korea while in the Navy, then began a career at Weber College in 1959 as a professor. He also worked as dean of students at the college and entered the political arena when he ran for city council in 1959.
Allen was born in Slaterville but lived in Ogden most of his life. His wife, Dahrl Richards, died two years ago. They were married 69 years. Allen leaves behind six children, 29 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
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