Allen Gale Estep, age 66, of Newark, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on October 19, 2026, at his home. He was born July 9, 1960, in Newark, Ohio.

Allen enlisted in the United States Navy immediately after graduating from high school and proudly dedicated 20 years of his life to serving his country. During his distinguished military career, he attained the rank of E-6 and specialized as an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels). He served aboard the USS Coral Sea (CV-43) and participated in overseas deployments and operations supporting Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield, including service in Southwest Asia and Kuwait. His military decorations included the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Navy Good Conduct Medal (five awards), Southwest Asia Service Medal with two bronze stars, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal, and numerous other commendations and service awards. He completed his Navy career with an honorable record and was transferred to the Fleet Reserve in September 1998, having fulfilled the service requirements for military retirement.

Allen was a highly intelligent, creative, and resourceful man who loved learning how things worked and finding ways to make them work better. He enjoyed tinkering, solving problems, and coming up with innovative solutions, always finding new projects to keep his mind and hands busy. One of his goals was to transform his home into a more self-sufficient space with solar panels, reflecting his independent spirit and forward-thinking nature.

He had a passion for filming and capturing memories, using his cameras and drones to document local bands, friends, and tabletop gaming gatherings. He took pride in preserving the moments and people that mattered to him. He even kept signed T-shirts from each band he filmed, carefully vacuum-sealed as keepsakes of the memories and connections he made along the way. He enjoyed supporting local musicians, attending charity events, and being part of the community around him.

When he wasn't behind a camera or working on one of his many projects, he enjoyed riding his trike motorcycle, playing pool, and spending time socializing with friends at his favorite local spots. He valued the friendships he built and the experiences he shared with others.

One of his greatest companions was his beloved dog, Kita, whom he took great pride in training. Through patience and dedication, he trained her to protect him, creating a special bond built on loyalty and trust.

Allen will be remembered for his sharp mind, independent nature, inventive spirit, loyalty to his friends, and appreciation for the people, hobbies, and experiences that made life meaningful to him. He had a unique way of looking at the world, a natural ability to figure things out, and a passion for preserving memories that will continue to live on through the moments he captured and the lives he touched.

He is survived by his loving mother, Daisy M. (Loper) Estep; sister, Melissa Keith; brother, Phillip A. Estep; several nieces and a nephew; and countless friends and acquaintances.

He was preceded in death by his birth mother, Wandalene Frances (Russell) Estep, and his father, Homer Allen Estep.

A graveside service with military honors, provided by the Licking County Veterans Alliance, will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Licking County Humane Society in Allen's memory.

Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral Home is honored to care for Allen and his family.