William Allen Nunn
February 2, 1941 - March 20, 2014
Allen Nunn passed away peacefully at the Salt Lake VA Hospital on March 20th after a long illness, surrounded by his loving wife and his two sisters-in-law. He was the son of Marta E. Allen Nunn and William Gibby Nunn, and is survived by his wife of 44 years, Joy, his daughter Meghan Elizabeth, son-in-law Chris Buxton, grandson Eizha Lanoha-Nunn, granddaughters Rivir, Serene, and Willow Buxton, and his brother Art Nunn. This is the obituary Allen wrote for himself prior to his passing:
Allen graduated from East High in 1959. He enlisted in the National Guard in 1958 and began a life-long love affair with the Army which lasted 37 years. He retired in 1994 as a Colonel commanding a Joint Service Group. In all of his activities, he always looked for an “adrenal rush”. He was a sworn officer with the SLCPD for four years, and served in the Central Intelligence Agency for seven years. He served in Vietnam with the U.S. Army, the Australian Task Force and was a ground operations officer for the CIA. He was a Special Deputy with the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s office, 1974-2006. Among those activities were numerous adrenalin rushes to be had.
He was qualified in and served in the career fields of: Infantry, Armor, Aviation, Special Forces and was a qualified Foreign Area Officer. He won a C.I.B. in Vietnam, was an Army aviator and a Master Parachutist. He commanded three times at the Company level, an Air Cavalry troop, a transportation aircraft maintenance company (AIR) (DS), and a finance company.
Allen formed and commanded a Joint Service Group, the 6396th JSG, to provide training opportunities for seven battalions. The group supported theater commands such as PACOM, SOCPAC, EUCOM and SOUTHCOM; personnel trained to run exercises and also provided “surge” capability for several theaters.
Allen was board selected to attend the Army War College, Carlisle Barracks, PA. He graduated in 1991 and retired from the military in 1994.
Academic achievements included: BA in History & Government, 1974; BS, Pre-Medical Studies, 1977; BS in Human Biology, 1979; Doctorate, Naturopathic Medicine, National College of Naturopathic Medicine, 1987.
He was licensed by both the state of Utah, and the DEA, and practiced medicine for 20 years. Semi-retired, in 2012 he donated care, and began writing the books he was always planning to write.
Allen loved life, family, friends, pets, and his alternate personality, “Oleg”. Oleg always had the most fun ever. Allen had a fabulous sense of humor, and hundreds of stories to share from his life and experiences. He loved doing stand-up comedy and gesturing hypnotically at people…. He understood that life is a school where we are given both challenges and problems to solve. He was a master at problem solving. In his core beliefs, there are built-in firm guarantees that he will come again when class is in session. He loves and misses you all.
A celebration of Allen’s life will be held on Saturday, March 29th from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor at 3651 South 900 East, where complimentary valet parking will be provided on the north side of the building. Graveside burial service will be at Utah Vets Memorial Cemetery (Camp Williams). Please contact Starks Funeral Parlor for date and time. In lieu of flowers, please donate to SLC VA Medical Center, Attn: GPF 1003 Patient Fund.
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For all we know, Mr. DeWitt Copp may have had Al Nunn, my dear friend and fellow Army flight school survivor, in mind when he wrote A Few Great Captains (Doubleday, 1980). Al lead by example all the 43 years I knew him. His example wasn’t always stellar. However, Al was always genuine, and he was steadfastly loyal to his family, friends and fellow warriors.
“Big Al” loved good food and beverage. No one piled more cheese, pepperoni and Italian sausage per square foot to prepare a pizza. He miraculously kept his cholesterol and blood pressure under control during flight school with self-prescribed daily doses of Scotch whisky every day except on Sunday. Then, on the Lord’s Day, he and his roommate Ray frequently could be found enjoying Eggs Benedict, strong black coffee, and small glasses of grapefruit juice. When downing the juice, Al made grotesque faces and punctuated the animated gestures with several hyperextensions of his hairy tongue while simultaneously uttering guttural sounds emanating deep within “Oleg” (reportedly his alter ego). The first time my better 80% and I hosted Big Al at our home for a meal other than a flight school pizza party, he made it crystal clear that he does not eat yard bird (aka chicken). Instead, he preferred a simple diet of steak, baked potato and a salad. Al also informed us that he did not use margarine. He thought it was a poison that had wormed its way into the US food chain. So, we served him butter.
There was no better story teller than Al Nunn. He rarely felt any need to embellish a story. Unlike mere mortals, he didn’t need to. Al lived one of the most interesting, full and complete lives imaginable. He shared the stories with anyone who expressed interest. Al had remarkable intellect and enjoyed showing it in diverse ways — telling humorous stories, writing “off the wall” creative Christmas newsletters, and running for Congress (some voters apparently wanted him in office; absolutely no one in Congress did). I wish he had been elected. We wouldn’t be in the shape we’re in now!
William Allen Nunn, Al, “Big Al,” Colonel Nunn, and “Oleg” all constantly sought to redefine/reestablish balance within his life while he walked among us. These faithful servants of mankind all applied unique intellectual offerings to enhance the lives of family, friends, colleagues and members of his community. At times those of us who knew him the best were lulled (through our own complacency) into thinking that Big Al was coasting or resting. In reality, he never rested while “class was in session.” Al was in constant pursuit of the perfect plan and the optimum implementation strategy to maximize any potential payoffs that might be made in his favor by the “system.” How else could a young man from Salt Lake City achieve great successes in the US Army/Guard, the CIA, local law enforcement, naturopathic medicine, while nurturing his personal relationships among family and friends? While doing good deeds to benefit everyone he touched, my fellow warrior-in-arms never forgot how to make the system also work for him. His singular stroke of genius within his peacetime military service was convincing the power brokers in Hawaii that his presence was essential to the effective and efficient planning and conduct of joint command exercises. He successfully negotiated access to both the “Blue” and the “Red” books used during the exercises. Consequently, Big Al was always on the winning side. Pretty savvy! My bride and I held him accountable during his trips to paradise while I was stationed at Headquarters Pacific Air Forces from 1985-1991. It was our pleasure to host him for backyard cookouts in the shadows of Kole Kole Pass. He was easy to entertain as long as the menu featured Scotch, steak, baked potato (with butter, not margarine) and salad. Some things just never changed. When not talking shop at our home after work, we might meet at the Pieces of Eight restaurant in Honolulu to enjoy sauteed scallops. The chow was great and the price was right!
There is so much more that could be cited as representative of Al Nunn’s rich life. However, few things say as much as the following.
During one of his military assignments to South Vietnam, Al performed minor surgery on some of his fellow combatants while still serving as a young enlisted person. He was neither trained nor experienced as a combat medic. Nevertheless, he had the courage to do what was needed to help his buddies. Al didn’t worry about the potential risks to his career, if things turned sour. After he hung up his uniform, Al put on a lab coat and rolled up his sleeves to serve his community as a naturopathic physician. In one special humanitarian initiative, Dr. Nunn purchased several refurbished oxygen generators and distributed them to low income residents within his community at no cost to them.
Despite his life-long predisposition to seeking the good things life had to offer, he was reliable even when opportunities arose to tempt him to be something other than reliable and trustworthy. For example, early in his military career, Al (rank unknown) was issued a duffle bag before departing the US for delivery in Saigon, South Vietnam. He did his job as ordered. He dropped the bag at a restaurant (a CIA front operation). Al could have taken the duffle bag to any point on the planet. Instead, he delivered the bag (stuffed with large denominations of US currency) to the CIA operative. Well done, good and faithful soldier!
At times Al’s behaviors were hard to read (especially for young inexperienced people who tended to see things in black and white). I remember the time when Al invited me to join him in Salt Lake City for a visit with his mother, who he affectionately referred to as “Chubby.” It was a rare glimpse into his private life. At first, I thought he was being disrespectful. It didn’t take long to see that she adored Al and actually expected him to call her “Chubby.” He indirectly taught me an important lesson that lasted a lifetime.
Big Al could appear out-of-control at times with outlandish behaviors, which some might have characterized as “off-the-charts.” I certainly didn’t know how to react sometimes. However, his bride of 44 years always knew what to do! Al loved Joy and would do anything for her. He had a deep respect for Joy’s artistic skills and leadership roles within several local and statewide art communities. Joy softened Al. He was forever changed for the better when Joy gave birth to Meghan. Al and Joy together doted on Meghan and later freely focused their resources on several grandchildren.
You will be sorely missed, Big Al! Thank you for your smile, your phone calls, and all other spirited communications over the years. You were a very special friend, indeed!
As you fly west through eternity, you’ll be pleased that the weather forecast remains CAVU with light and variable tailwinds. No more storms ahead. All VNE restrictions have been repealed. You are cleared in “hot” with unlimited stores of munitions. Hooah!
Steven N. Ulosevich, EdD, SPHR Emeritus
Major (US Air Force, Command Pilot, Retired)
Pendleton, SC
In Loving Memory
I loved Dr Nunn, his full of life personality will forever be missed. So sorry for your loss. A forever thanks to him and his family for taking my daughter Crystal and treating her like a family member. Until we meet again......
Karleen Kartchner Montanez
South Jordan, Ut
Joy, Sue and I enjoyed knowing you both. We miss not being able to see you guys at the gym. He was a fun person to be around and will be greatly missed.
Rod Stone
Salt Lake City, ut
My dad is an MD (now 89 years old) and the only physician I ever trusted until I met and became a patient of Dr. Nunn's. I am deeply saddened by this news because Dr. Nunn's commitment to healing (not what passes for "medical care" but real healing), his humor and good grace remind me of my dad. I'll miss him just as much. God's Speed wherever you are Dr. Nunn!
Joseph G. Buchman, PhD
Park City, UT
Joy, we are so sorry for your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Judy Strasheim
West Jordan, UT
Joy, I'm sorry to hear about your husband's passing. I remember sitting at the same table with the two of you at one of the firm Christmas parties. We had so much fun talking with you and Allen. He had us all in stitches with his funny stories, making the evening very memorable. He and his wisdom will missed by many. Take care.
Beckie Hepworth
Salt Lake City, UT
It was a pleasure to have an office next to Dr. Nunn for many years. Visiting with Dr. Nunn professionally, and with Oleg socially, allowed me a glimpse into his greatness. His love for the USA and his fellow man was endless. Dr. Nunn's passing is a great personal loss for us all. Humble condolences to the family.
Dr. Larry Higginson
Salt Lake City, Ut
Joy, You have been through so much these last several years and I know that this passing is but one more phase in your life. I am so sorry for your loss and wish all the best for you and your family.
Brenda Brunello
Providence, Ut
Joy, please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved, Allen. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Hugs!
Evelyn Herzog
Salt Lake City, Ut
Allen was one of kind. So full of life and cared so much for humanity. We loved him and his wit, awesome stories and jokes. He was a good listener for those of us who needed the a boost to our life's. I will miss him greatly as a friend and doctor. Joy and family you have our prayers and thoughts for your loss! Allen new also how much we cared. Sincerely, Alice and Jim Larkin
Alice and Jim Larkin
Draper, Ut
My Uncle Al (the Kiddies' Pal) was bigger than life. His humor, playfulness, and storytelling-ability were second to none. Whenever I would come to visit, he would load me up with tons of vitamins, swab my nose and ask if I wanted a shot. (Where will we get our Green Cream now?!) Uncle Al, if not reading spy novels (I think that's what they were), was whipping up juicy hamburgers and wrapping us up in one of his many unbelievable stories. Laughter was in abundance when Uncle Al was around (or groaning, in Aunt Joy's case ... as she had heard these stories at least 100 times). Uncle Al loved his community. Every time my family and I would visit, he would take us out to his favorite, long-established food spots. He was very proud and excited to introduce these gems to us. Knowing all their names, he would talk to the servers and owners like they were family. It brought him such pleasure to connect with people. Knowing my uncle after all these years, what came through more than anything, was that he truly cared about people and that he enjoyed life. May we all live life with as much passion and love. I will miss your big bear hugs, Uncle Al.
Tzaddi Bondi
Portland, Or
My heart goes out to you and your family at this time. I know that you are happy to have had your life together and wish the eternities for you both. He was such a jolly good natured individual. God bless and comfort in you time of need.
Ann L. DeWeese
Grantsville, Ut
I had the honor of following Dr. Nunn in clinic for an afternoon during my first year of medical school. I was incredibly impressed by his generosity and devotion to his patients. He was patient, kind and cared deeply about his patients' well-being. I am saddened that I won't have another chance to learn from him. He certainly remains an inspiration to me.
Kelsey Buchman
park city, ut
Dearest Joy and Family, I was heartbroken to receive your letter this week with the sad news about Allen. Although I hadn't seen Allen for more than 40 years, I'm sure, I enjoyed being reminded of his wonderful humor every year when I received your Christmas newsletter. He had such a way with words and always brought a smile to my face. You were so fortunate to have such a loving relationship for such a long time. Few are so lucky, but I know your special bond makes this loss even more painful. I am so deeply sorry that you have lost your dear Allen. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless, Berit Dronenburg
Berit Dronenburg
Laurel, MD
Memories of the Life & Times of Allen William Nunn, My Dear Brother-in-Law By Janet Bondi Allen first appeared in my life in 1969 when I was a junior in a high school in Alexandria, Virginia. He walked into the high rise apartment building where I lived with my family. My mother, who was the resident manager, rented him an apartment. As a young man in his early twenties, he made such an impression on her that she introduced him to her own precious daughter, and my sister, Joy. Impressing my mother was a major feat and my father, who was an Air Force pilot and Congressional Medal of Honor WWII hero was also impressed in particular with Allen's many military accomplishments and they became fast friends sharing stories of their military ventures. So Joy and Allen fell in love and I was honored and very excited to be a maid of honor at their wedding. In a few years they had a beautiful baby girl named Meghan and they settled down in Salt Lake City in the very house where Allen had been born. During this time Allen also took care of his mother and father until their passing. The years flew by and on occasional visits with Joy and Allen; I learned that Allen had to go away from his young family for a while to pursue a doctorate in Naturopathy in Portland, Oregon. Upon returning home with his hard earned ND, Allen soon set up his practice and began seeing patients while Joy worked full time as a paralegal. During this time Allen also ran for public office as a representative of Salt Lake City, substitute taught at the local high school and donated his time to work at a clinic for the poor. Life was good and soon Meghan graduated from high school, married and started a family of her own, blessing Joy and Allen with their first grandchild, Eisha. The time came when Allen's father and his mother passed away. Then my father passed away and my mother suffered a severe stroke that left her unable to care for herself. So Joy and Allen stepped in and provided her with a newly refurbished home next door. For over 13 years, they provided dedicated and loving care for her, the woman who had brought them together from the beginning. I personally witnessed almost 4 years of Allen and Joy's dedicated care for our mother and I saw how Allen exhibited the qualities of a most loving son-in-law and personal physician for my mother. He was also a helpful and supportive brother-in-law to me and my husband, as he helped us locate to Salt Lake City from California following the Dotcom Bust. I also know Allen was a fine brother to all his siblings. When his sister needed a bone marrow transplant, he flew to her bedside and valiantly went through the painful procedure of donating his own marrow in an effort to save her life. You didn't have to be lucky enough to be related to Allen for him to help you. The numerous times I accompanied him on errands throughout the community: to the grocery store, the Christmas tree lot, the assisted care facility of his patients, to his neighbors, I saw him share his special kindness and good humor as he talked with and counseled whomever he met. It was indeed a privilege to have known this gentle giant, this hero of the many battlefields upon which he gave of himself, not only for our freedom, but for our hopes, dreams, our health and harmony. And now I can only give wholehearted thanks for the precious time Allen walked this earth with us, his family of brothers and sisters. And so, here's looking at you, dear Uncle Al. You called yourself ?the kiddies pal? and indeed you were and until we meet again, I will forever be your adoring sister-in-law whom you nicknamed, ?Fatty Acids?. Although we must return your body to its source, you will have eternal life in the hearts and minds of all of us here, the multitudes that have experienced the beauty of your kind heart and loving spirit. Your loving sister-in-law, Janet
Janet Bondi
Bend, OR
Memories of Allen By Leni Ortenburger I knew Allen from the time I was 15, an age which gave Allen a lot of raw material for teasing, which he loved to do; as Joy's two sisters, we of course needed nicknames – we were collectively dubbed ?the sisty uglers', and my personal nickname was ?Linus', a name he continued to call me most of my life. Allen had funny nicknames and wacky pronunciations for many things, not just people, and some of them I have now incorporated into my daily speech, the sincerest form of flattery. Allen was a card, that's for sure, I would go so far as to call him impish, as he delighted daily in making and having fun. I have no idea how/where he got this trait, but in my experience it's a rare quality, and makes life and its troubles a little lighter for everyone. He was also a deeply caring person, with a big heart. Every time I came to visit Joy and Allen, he would drag me around town on various errands, and I was amazed at how he seemed to know everyone, and would joke and laugh with every individual he came in contact with, from the butcher, to the store clerk, the hostess at the restaurant, the bank teller, the person at the gas station, I mean EVERYONE! Their faces lit up when they saw him; they all seemed to know him and be happy to see him. I think this was because he really SAW them, and treated them as individuals he appreciated, not just someone confined to a role and there to serve him. And of course he teased and joked with them too, as he did with everyone. Allen was amazingly knowledgeable about all things medical, and for years was the go-to medical advisor for our whole family. When my mom suffered a stroke and needed to be closer to family, he opened his heart and his home without reservation to welcome her, and he and Joy cared for her for 11 years, keeping her in excellent health and spirits for the last years of her life. My stand-out fond Allen memory is a letter he sent me when I was devastated by a wrenching break-up. I opened it as I stood in the rain waiting for a train that would take me from California to Utah, where I would lick my wounds for a few weeks. I still have the letter, and will always treasure it – it was the most caring, heartfelt, beautiful, consoling letter I have ever received. In it he revealed that generous and loving heart I will always remember and love him for. His passing is a void in the life of everyone who knew him. I think the best way to honor him is to emulate him – to love the people who surround us, and try to lighten their load in the ways he showed us. God speed, my brother, and thank you for being a part of our family. I love you. Lynn ( Linus)
Lynn Ortenburger
Portland, OR
Dr Nunn, I am so sorry I missed your service. You were a great friend and doctor. I am a better person for having known you... Your stories were amazing. You were an amazing man. God Bless you... Thank you for ALWAYS treating me like I was your only patient... Your kindness never went in noticed and was so deeply appreciated. You were a special friend. You're always in my heart Dr. Nunn. Thank you for EVERYTHING -Shane
Shane R. Kirby
Draper, Ut