Austin – It is with deep sadness the family of Allen Sheldon Horning, 90, announce his passing on April 7, 2026, at his home in Austin.
Allen was born on February 21, 1936, to Alvin and Sigrid Horning. He was raised on a farm near Goodridge. After graduating from Goodridge High in 1954, he enlisted in the US Navy in December of 1954. On September 1, 1956, Allen returned to Minnesota to marry his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Eileen Sigerud.
Allen and Marilyn relocated many times within the United States and Newfoundland, all the while raising four children. Throughout his dedicated military career of 20 years, he became known as “Big Al” to his military buddies, which carried on through his lifetime. Allen retired from the US Navy in 1974, holding the rank of Chief Petty Officer 3rd Class.
Following Allen’s retirement, they moved to Northern MN to be close to family and friends. In 1983, they settled in Wyoming. Allen and Marilyn shared 49 years of marriage until Marilyn’s passing in 2005. Throughout the years, their children: Jim, Mark, Jacque and Mitch, the grandchildren and great grandchildren were the center of their world.
In 2010, Allen and Patricia Schaefer developed a strong friendship and built a new life together, traveling between their homes in Arizona and Minnesota and ultimately settled down in Austin.
Allen’s incredible character, positivity, generosity and love for his family, friends and his service to our country will remain his legacy. His kindness, humor and steady presence has left an enduring impact for all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his four children, Jim (Vickie) Horning, Kansas City, MO; Mark Horning, Dayton, WY; Jacque (Jay) Bilyeu, Sagle, ID and Mitch Horning, Casper, WY; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; partner, Pat Schaefer; sister, Shirley McAlister; numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn; his parents and grandparents.
A memorial service honoring Allen’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on May 15, 2026, at the Oregon Trail State Veterans Cemetery in Evansville, WY. A gathering in celebration of Allen’s life will begin after 1 p.m. at Gruner Brothers Brewery in Casper, WY.
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