Born in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Etta Allen has been contributing to the betterment of Marin County for decades. In 1957, Etta and her husband Jim founded Allen Heating & Sheet Metal in Fairfax. Following Jim’s passing in 1974, Etta had to earn her own contractor’s license to keep the company going. She’s still involved with it today, though son Jim now runs the day-to-day operations.
Etta’s list of accomplishments and honors is longer than we have room for here, but some include: first woman president of the Marin Builder’s Exchange (1977-78) and the San Rafael Rotary Club; first woman on the executive committee of the California Builder’s Exchange; former president of San Rafael, Larkspur and Marin Hispanic Chambers of Commerce. She was among the first inducted into the Marin Women’s Hall of Fame in 1988 and was named Marin County Citizen of the Year (1990).
In 1988, Etta was appointed to the Westamerica Bank board and currently serves on the company’s board of directors. She served as a trustee of the Marin Community College District between 1982 and 1991 and has both sat on the foundation board and chaired the operating board of Marin General Hospital.
These days, it’s San Rafael’s revered Guide Dogs for the Blind that holds her attention. She’s been a breeder/keeper, sits on the board of directors (and acts as its secretary) and spearheaded a therapy program at Marin General Hospital involving service dogs. Additionally, she works in a canine wellness program at Sutter Hospital in Santa Rosa. She’s also happily adopted Deanne, a retired guide dog.
Yes, very much so. I dream in great detail and remember them quite clearly. There’s no one recurring dream, but sometimes there are recurring themes.
Have you ever helped a total stranger? How?
I gave money to a family at a gas station who had run out of money and was having car trouble on the way to Oregon. They had two little kids and I felt sorry for them. I remember I felt so good after doing it, but everyone at the office said I’d been swindled. I told them that was [that family’s] problem, not mine.
How do you feel about your age?
It’s a wonderful age—but I think I’ve felt that way about all my ages. I’ve attained a maturity and a perspective that’s new. I can see what my real values are and I know what’s really important.
If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be?
Amelia Earhart. I’ve always been fascinated with flying and began taking lessons when I was 16. I’m no longer a licensed pilot, but I was for a number of years. I’d love to talk with her about her flying experiences.
If you could play a role in a movie, what would it be? Why?
I’d be Lassie or Rin Tin Tin. I’ve always been interested in dogs; it’s one of the reasons I’m so involved with Guide Dogs today. Watching the dogs go through their training and their interactions with their owners, I’m curious to know how much they understand that we’re not aware of.
Of all the things you’ve done in your life, of what are you most proud?
A few years ago, I would have said “being a wife and mother.” Now, I look at my vineyard and think of all the work that’s gone into cultivating the plain, rocky soil and turning it into a success. It’s development you can see—in that sense, it’s a lot like raising children.
What’s something mischievous you’ve done?
When I was in high school I played hooky for a day. It seemed so terrible at the time! Looking back, I spent the whole day hiding for fear of being caught. It wasn’t worth the worry.
What person do you admire most and why?
There are two people on the staff at Guide Dogs, Aerial Gilbert and Ken Altenburger. They’ve each turned tragedy into success. They lost their sight late in their lives but haven’t let it affect them negatively. They’ve both continued to accomplish so many things.
What was your favorite childhood toy?
As a little girl I had a lot of dolls, but my favorite was one with a broken leg. It had belonged to someone else who didn’t want it because of the leg, but I adopted it and it became my favorite.
What is the best sound in the world?
Early in the morning when I walk into my yard, which is surrounded by the vineyard, I hear the birds singing. It’s early, so it’s very peaceful. The view and the tranquility combine with the birds’ songs and give me great inspiration.
