Marvel “Dawn” Allan

Marvel “Dawn” Allan

October 18, 1934 – November 2, 2024

Marvel “Dawn” Allan, age 90 of Bloomington, MN, passed away on November 2, 2024.

Dawn was born on October 18, 1934, to Calvin and Ethel Waldron, of Lansing, MI. She is preceded in death by her husband of 16 years, Bruce Allan, her brother Darryl, her parents, and son, Bruce Allan II. She is survived by daughter, Brooke (Ray) Topalof and their children Nick and Kendall (Devin Millett); son Scott (Sandra) Allan and his children Finley and Wyatt; and Bruce’s wife and son, Lynne and Stone Allan. Dawn graduated from Sexton High School in Lansing, MI, where she was active in the music and theatre departments. She attended the University of Michigan to study theater and music, and then went to Columbia University for a Master in Music Education degree.

Early in her career, she sang and performed on and off Broadway, including at Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall. Following her marriage, she began a long career in public education, both as a music teacher and a principal. While in the Minneapolis Public School system, she implemented and managed the music magnet program at North High School, and the International Baccalaureate program at Southwest High School. Dawn was a founding member of the Southwest Theater Project that produced musicals for several years, bringing together a community of actors of all ages. She spent 10 years as the music director at Anthony Middle School in Minneapolis, working with over 1,000 children. She found time to direct several musicals at her grandchildren’s middle school, Avail Christian Academy in Edina, and was also the music director for over 10 theater productions at Carondelet Catholic School in Minneapolis. While tirelessly dedicating her time to the Minneapolis Public School, Dawn also led the choral program at Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina. Following her “retirement”, she dedicated her time to Bible Study Fellowship (BSF), both as the pianist and active member. She also coached a number of singers and taught piano to students in her home. During this time, Dawn also directed the music and choir program at Lake of Isles Lutheran Church while starting and directing BRAVA, an all-women choir performing throughout the Twin Cities. Dawn loved to make music! Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 6th at Lake of the Isles Lutheran Church.

Obituary provided by family of the deceased.