Allen Clayton Losh

United States Army Corporal Allen Clayton Losh tragically lost his life on April 15, 2014 from service-connected stomach cancer.

Losh grew up in Granite Bay, California, before later moving to Healdsburg. He was raised by his parents, Vern and Teresa, alongside his younger sister, Whitney. He was part of a joyful and close-knit extended family who enjoyed road trips and spending holidays together, often sharing humorous stories about Losh’s childhood. From a young age, he showed a vivid imagination, frequently “playing Army” and developing a passion for medieval knights. Following in his father’s footsteps, Losh joined the fire service as an explorer in his teens and later continued as a reserve firefighter when his military service allowed. After completing his military service, he pursued his love for the outdoors by taking mountain climbing classes and becoming an assistant guide. 

A passion for service took root early in life, reflected in the military history books that filled his shelves. That calling led to his enlistment in the California Air National Guard in 2005, followed by a transfer to the United States Army in 2007. During his service, he formed lasting friendships with fellow service members who remain close to the family to this day. His dedication and commitment were recognized through numerous awards and decorations, including the Iraq Campaign Medal with three campaign stars, Army Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Medal.

Losh met his wife, Laura, through a mutual friend in their shared hometown after she had completed college and returned. Despite having attended the same high school, their paths had never crossed. Laura was drawn to his optimism and adventurous spirit. Some of her most cherished memories include their time together while Losh was stationed in Germany. They embraced the new culture, local festivals, and the landscape, with snowy winters. During Losh’s leave following his second deployment, they undertook an ambitious tour, visiting nine countries in eleven days, an experience they deeply enjoyed. Upon their return to the United States, and while awaiting the shipment of their household goods to California, they embarked on a hiking expedition in Peru with a friend. These moments reflected the love, adventure, and deep connection that defined their life together.

Losh leaves behind a legacy marked by his authentic friendships. He always made time for those who mattered most to him, whether it was sharing a meal or enjoying road trips filled with laughter and singing. His optimistic outlook and constant desire to learn allowed him to connect with and befriend many people, leading to a life rich in adventure and meaningful relationships. He approached life with curiosity and openness, always eager to share experiences and create lasting memories with those around him. Losh was easy to talk to and be around, and he had a natural ability to make others feel at ease and valued in his presence. 

Today, Losh’s family continues to honor his life through meaningful acts of remembrance and service. Beginning at the time of his diagnosis of stomach cancer, they organized events such as a mountain climbing fundraiser and a community dinner to raise support and awareness. Following his passing, they established a 5K run dedicated to raising funds and awareness for stomach cancer. For several years, they also funded a scholarship through the Healdsburg Fire Department, providing reserve firefighters the opportunity to attend advanced training and further their service to the community. The family continues to participate in local stomach cancer awareness walks and finds comfort in a memorial bench dedicated to Losh at a regional park, a place filled with special family memories. They celebrate his birthday each year, and his values remain deeply rooted in the way they live their lives. 

United States Army Corporal Allen Clayton Losh is survived by his beloved wife, Laura, and their daughter, Sierra; his parents, Vern and Teresa; and his sister, Whitney.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Losh family home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.