In memory of

Allan Ellsworth Bacheller

Dec 3, 1934
Jul 18, 2021

Obituary

Allan was born in McGregor, Minnesota on December 3, 1934. The second born of six children. He moved to Salem, Oregon with his family from a farm in North Dakota when he was in the 7th grade. He graduated in 1953 from Salem High School. He joined the army and served in the 11th Airborne in Fort Campbell, Kentucky until 1956.

He married the love of his life, Dolores Smith on August 31, 1957. He attended Oregon State University for one year and transferred to Oregon College of Education receiving his Bachelor’s Degree in Education. He later received his Master’s Degree in Library Science and an Education Administration degree from University of Oregon.

The family moved to Sherman County where he taught history and coached Freshman football at Moro High School for four years. In 1966 he received a grant to go to University of Hawaii for Asian Studies. The family (Dolores and 3 children) moved to Honolulu for one year. After completing his studies they moved to Redmond, Oregon where he taught High School history and social studies and was a wrestling coach. After teaching he became the High School Librarian, the Vice Principal and Principal of Redmond High.

In 1986 he moved to Salem and worked as an Area Director for the Salem-Keizer school district until his retirement. Retirement was a busy and fun adventure. Traveling in their RV was a special joy, seeing new places and meeting great friends from all over the world.

Allan had three children, Teri, Greg and Laura. 5 Grandchildren; Lindsay, Derek, Kellen, Chelsea, Ryan and 4 great grandchildren. Numerous loving nieces and nephews. His siblings; Doug (deceased), Ruth (deceased), Leroy, Linda, Bernie.

Allan loved his family and life with such passion.  He fought cancer for over 14 years and was an inspiration to all who knew him, including the many doctors who were a part of his life.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. Check back for further details.

Service Information

Celebration of Life - POSTPONED - check back for updated information

Oak Grove Grange Hall
2670 Oak Grove Rd., Rickreall, OR.

Messages of Sympathy

  1. Judy (Lynn) Hawkins says:

    John and I met Allan and his wife Dolores at Oasis palms RV park. They were always welcome to our group of RV snowbirds around the campfire. Such a nice Man.

  2. Victoria Grensky (Vicki Gridley) says:

    Delores, Teri, Greg & Laura- I’m so sorry to learn of the passing of your beloved husband & father. He had such a positive impact on my life at Remond High & I feel blessed to have known such a great role model in my formative years. May you find comfort in the memories you shared during this difficult time. My sincerest condolences & love.

  3. Ken Noah says:

    Al was a friend, mentor and confidant for over 45 years. He led life through his example to others. His influence was enormous. He leaves this world a better place for his part in it.

  4. Diana Patterson Schmidt says:

    Such a kind, loving family man- he was a wonderful grandpa to my sweet niece and nephew, Lindsay and Derek. I know they will miss him terribly. Big hugs to you: Dolores, Teri, Greg, and Laura. You all are special to us Pattersons! Wish we could be with you to celebrate Allan’s life.

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