Alan G. Clausen passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025, in his home in Littleton, after many years living with Parkinson’s disease. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose intellect and quiet warmth will be deeply missed.
Alan is survived by his wife of 43 years, Trudi; his son, Trevor (Karin); his stepchildren, Mark (Frances) and Terisa; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Stephanie, who passed away in 2005.
Alan was born and raised in Clinton, Iowa, the son of Leroy and Esther Clausen, and grew up alongside his sister, Judy, whom he admired and looked up to. As a young man, Alan played the trombone and, like many boys his age, occasionally found himself getting into trouble with friends. He traveled often with his parents and sister, visiting national parks, coastal areas, mountain destinations, and the American West, and later continued that tradition with his children, sharing those experiences and adventures together.
Alan graduated from the University of Iowa in 1965 and later attended law school at the University of Denver, where he served as editor of the Law Review. Following graduation, he clerked for the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. Alan practiced law in Summit County for 27 years, where he was known for his dedication to the community and his generous pro bono work. After leaving Summit County, Alan and Trudi returned to the city for a warmer, drier climate.
Alan and his wife, Trudi, shared a love of travel throughout their life together, exploring many destinations including Ireland, France, England, Italy, Norway, Hungary, Hawaii, and Santa Fe, New Mexico—one of their most frequently visited and cherished places.
An avid reader and lifelong learner, Alan had a deep love of history—especially early U.S. history, the Old West and gunfighters, the experiences and displacement of Native Americans, past presidents, and politics. He enjoyed novels by James Patterson, David Baldacci, James Lee Burke, and John Grisham. Alan loved classic films, enjoyed going to the movies, and especially valued time with family.
A devoted sports fan, Alan loved following the games, especially Iowa Hawkeyes basketball and football and the Denver Broncos (most of the time), and at one point was a respectable ping-pong player. He also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—baseball games, hot dogs at the ballpark, dining out, riding around in his convertible Fiat, “Shadow,” during the summertime, and ice cream and donuts, which were among his favorites…which was just about all the time.
Alan was especially devoted to his grandchildren and took great joy in supporting his granddaughters at soccer, gymnastics, track, volleyball, cheer, school plays, and many other events. He also volunteered at their elementary school, reading to classrooms—a role he truly cherished. Alan loved coming to all the holiday gatherings—especially Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter dinners—reconnecting with loved ones, and watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow.
A Memorial Reception will be held on Alan’s birthday, Sunday, December 28, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Horan & McConaty Reception Center, 3101 South Wadsworth Boulevard, Lakewood.
Please share your memories of Alan and condolences with his family by signing the guest book below.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to your favorite charity in Alan’s honor.
Horan & McConaty Reception Center
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