Gary Allen (American football) Children: Does Gary Allen Have Kids?
The passing of Gary Allen, the legendary University of Hawaii football player, has left a void in the hearts of many. As we mourn the loss of this remarkable athlete, we also reflect on the legacy he leaves behind. In addition to his extraordinary football career, Allen was a loving family man, survived by his wife, Hilda, and their children, daughter Adrian and son Jaden.
During his time as a Rainbow Warrior tailback from 1978 to 1981, Allen established himself as one of the greatest rushers in the history of University of Hawaii football. His record-setting career, amassing an impressive 3,451 rushing yards, is a testament to his talent and dedication to the sport. Jesse Sapolu, a former UH offensive lineman who achieved great success in the NFL, remarked, “If you put everything together, we’ve had some great running backs… But everybody knows he’s right up there all time. It’s a sad moment for all of us.”
Allen’s dynamic running style, coupled with his iconic flapping shoulder pads, made him a force to be reckoned with on the field. Known for his relentless work ethic, Allen approached every practice with unwavering determination. Brian Derby, a former UH lineman and longtime football camp coach, recalled Allen’s unparalleled intensity, stating, “He ran so frickin’ hard… I’ve never seen anyone practice as hard as him… He would take the ball and run all the way to the end zone. And then run back (to the huddle). And then the next play, he’d run all the way to the end zone again.”
Beyond his achievements in college football, Allen’s talent caught the attention of the Houston Oilers, who selected him in the sixth round of the 1983 NFL Draft. He had the privilege of serving as Hall of Fame running back Earl Campbell’s backup and also played for the Dallas Cowboys.
In 1998, Allen’s contributions to the University of Hawaii were recognized when he was inducted into the UH Circle of Honor. During the banquet held in his honor, Allen took the opportunity to express his gratitude to his teammates. Brian Derby emphasized the significance of their bond, explaining, “We’re here because of the person you are, not the player… Nobody remembers us as players. We’re has-beens. But they remember how we treated people.”
In recent years, Allen continued to foster connections with his former teammates by joining them on road trips from Los Angeles to Las Vegas to support the University of Hawaii football team. Rick Nakashima, a close friend of Allen’s for over four decades and the organizer of these trips, spoke fondly of their time together, sharing, “I’m really hurt… Gary was such a good guy. So darn humble, too. He was funny and a great guy to be around.”
As we honor the memory of Gary Allen, we extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Hilda, and their children, Adrian and Jaden. The legacy he leaves behind, both on and off the field, is a testament to his character, work ethic, and love for his family. May he rest in peace, knowing that his impact on the football community and the lives he touched will never be forgotten.