Allison Elise Fender

Allison Elise Fender, beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away at her family home in Anaconda, Montana on August 19, 2023.  She was the cherished daughter of Jacqueline Elizabeth (Hand) and Ira Everett Fender.

Allison was born on March 18, 1985, in Huntsville, Alabama. She pursued an education in microbiology at the University of Montana. This led to a professional life as a dedicated study coordinator with the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Research, and Charles River Laboratory as well as the Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, NV. In 2020, Allison returned to Anaconda to work remotely full time with her work. She was highly revered for her expertise and strong work ethic by her employers.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Allison found joy in hobbies and interests. Golf was a wonderful pastime throughout her lifetime and was an especially shared passion with her and her father.  Family and friends often joined in on the solace and relaxation on the links with them. There was also a mutual enthusiasm and massive attention directed towards the Alabama Crimson Tide football season with her father and these same family and friends (Son in law and Ohio Buckeye fan Nate Shahan was the exception and good sport about it). 

She was a fan of video games, books, and long philosophical conversations with her dad and close friends. And whether it was crashing waves, waterfalls, or serene lakes, water always brought Allison peace, inspiration, and alignment with nature. 

Allison is survived by her loving mother, Jackye Fender, her sister Emily Kristen Shahan and her brother-in-law Nate Shahan. She will be greatly missed by her nephews Anthony and Nathan Gallagher, and her beloved niece Frances ‘Fancy' Shahan.  She is now reunited with her father Ira Fender, with whom she will find eternal peace.

Allison had a profound love of animals and their wellbeing.  In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial contributions be directed to Pintler Pets: 80 Silver Street Anaconda, MT 59711.

A service commemorating the life of Allison Fender will be announced at a later date, allowing more family and friends to come together to share memories and celebrate her life. Roll tide roll.

Please visit the sidebar to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Allison.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Allison and her family.