Alan Gene Ahlgrim

Alan Gene Ahlgrim, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, pastor, author, and mentor, passed away at home on February 11, 2025, after a brief illness. He was born on May 17, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, to Eugene and Myrtle Ahlgrim.

Alan received his “lifetime achievement award” when he married Linda Walters on August 17, 1968. Together, they shared fifty-six wonderful years of marriage, raising three children and cherishing six grandchildren.

A lifelong learner, Alan earned undergraduate degrees in Bible and History from Milligan University, a Master of Divinity from Southern Baptist Seminary, a Doctor of Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary, and an honorary Doctorate in Theology from Seoul Christian University. His faith and dedication to ministry shaped his life’s work, impacting countless individuals and communities across the world.

Alan spent over half his life in Colorado, embracing an active lifestyle with Linda. They found joy in hiking, kayaking, biking, snowshoeing, and walking together, often accompanied by their beloved dog, Molly Brown.

For twenty-nine years, Alan faithfully served as the founding pastor of Rocky Mountain Christian Church in Colorado. His passion helped spark a national resurgence in new church planting. After retiring from his role as lead pastor, Alan reinvested his energy into supporting fellow pastors, missionaries, and leaders in crisis through his work with Blessing Ranch before founding and actively leading Covenant Connections for Pastors as its Chief Soul Care Officer. Alan poured his heart into his book Soul Strength as a foundation for this life-giving work. His dedication to helping leaders serve well and finish well left an enduring legacy of encouragement and renewal.

Alan is survived by his devoted wife, Linda; their children, Jennifer Depler (Drew) and their children, Alicia and David (Megan); Joel Ahlgrim (Nicole) and their children, Andrew and Emily; and Kristin Stacey (Dave) and their children, Ethan and Silas. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Mitchum (Fulton), along with a vast spiritual family across the country and around the world.

Alan’s life was one of faith, service, and love, with frequent bursts of (loud) laughter mixed in. His impact will continue to be felt in the lives of those he mentored, guided, and inspired. His family takes comfort in knowing he has finished well and is now at peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Alan often remarked that his goal in life was to go to heaven when he died, and to take as many people with him as he possibly could. From those who have had the immense privilege to share life with him, we say, “Mission accomplished. Welcome home.”