L. Donald Allanson, 91, passed away peacefully at his residence of Twin Oaks Farm in Swoope, Va., on January 9, 2023. Born
June 22, 1931 in Lone Fountain, Va., he was the son of Willie and Lena HodgeAllanson. He is survived by his wife Elizabeth
(Botkin)Allanson, whom he married on February 16, 1951.
Donald was a 1949 graduate of Churchville High School. He was a member of Elk Run Church of the Brethren where he served
on many committees. He also served eight years in the United States Navy Reserve. In his later years, he attended St. Paul’s
United Methodist Church where he strengthened his love for the Lord.
Donald owned and operated Allanson Construction Company for 40 years. He constructed homes in theAugusta County, Bath
County, Staunton and Waynesboro areas. He also was recognized for completing projects for the National Forest Service, local
banks and many businesses. He owned and operated the Riverside Plaza in Churchville for 25 years as well as the Locust Hill
Apartments in Staunton. Donald and his employees donated their time to build the first fire department building in Churchville.
He was a past member of the Churchville Ruritan Club and a life-time member of the National Wild Turkey Federation. Donald
loved the outdoors including hunting, fishing and horseback riding (especially on his farms in Highland County) and instilled
these activities in his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
With all of his accomplishments, his love and kindness to his family and friends are what he will be remembered for the most.
In addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by his brother, Elmer C. Allanson, a son-in-law, James F. Nycum, Jr. and
an infant grandson.
In addition to his beloved wife of 71 years, he is survived by his daughter BrendaA. Nycum; son Larry D. Allanson and wife
Ann; grandchildren Sheila N. Jennings and husband Jeff, James “Nick” Nycum and wife Sarah, MorganA. Glass and husband
Kameron, Dylan D. Allanson and wife Mary Kate, Benjamin J. McDevitt and wife Erin, Joshua P. McDevitt and wife Cara;
great-grandchildren Garrett, Colton and Parker Jennings, Adelyn, Case, Crew and Wells Nycum, Ellie Jarvis, Berkley and Amelia
McDevitt, William and Caroline McDevitt; and niece Doris A. Whitson. In addition, he also loved a special “sister,” Wilma
Obaugh of McDowell, Va. and special friends Paul Zimmerman and the late Roscoe Hanger, both of Churchville, Va.
In honoring Mr. Allanson’s request, there will be no formal visitation. Agraveside service for family and friends will be held
11:00 am Thursday, January 12 in Green Hill Cemetery, Churchville, Va. The service will be officiated by the Reverend Scott
Reese. Music will be provided by Mrs. Lori Botkin. Active pallbearers will be grandsons James “Nick” Nycum, DylanAllanson,
Ben McDevitt, Josh McDevitt, Jeff Jennings and Kameron Glass.
Aspecial thanks to Dr. Rob Marsh and all caregivers who allowed Donald to remain at home.
Bear Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the memorial fund of Elk Run Church of the Brethren, 1599 Scenic
Hwy., Churchville, VA24421.